A 4-Year-Old Boy Is Brought to the Office for a Routine

A 4-year-old boy is brought to the office for a routine visit.  He has no medical problems and started preschool 3 weeks ago.  The mother is concerned about his adjustment to school as he wants to stay home like his baby sister, frequently takes a long time to get dressed, and becomes upset when dropped off at school.  On the first day of school, she was embarrassed when her son stomped his feet, yelled, "Take me home," and wrapped his arms around her legs, physically preventing her from leaving the classroom.  The teacher reports that the boy settles down a few minutes after the mother leaves.  He is shy but plays with the other children and participates in all class activities.  The boy's sleep and appetite are normal, although he refuses to eat anything with peas in it.  His growth and developmental milestones are within normal range.  Which of the following is the most likely explanation for the boy's behavior?

A) Adjustment disorder
B) Normal development
C) Oppositional defiant disorder
D) Parent-child relational problem
E) Separation anxiety disorder
F) Social anxiety disorder
G) Stranger anxiety

Correct Answer:

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