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EMOTIONAL DISTURBANCE

 

 

EMOTIONAL DISTURBANCE

Authorities:  34 CFR Part 300; Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 501; 19 TAC Chapter 89; 22 TAC Chapter 465

 
 
 
  FEDERAL AND STATE REQUIREMENTS
The child must be assessed in all areas of suspected disability. Citations:
The local educational agency must comply with EVALUATION PROCEDURES.

In Texas, the group of qualified professionals that determines whether the child is a child with a disability and the educational needs of the child is the child's ADMISSION, REVIEW, AND DISMISSAL COMMITTEE.

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The assessment of emotional or behavioral disturbance, for educational purposes, using psychological techniques and procedures is considered the practice of psychology. Citations:
A person commits an offense if the person engages in the practice of psychology or represents that the person is a psychologist in violation of the Texas Occupations Code. Citations:
 
EVALUATION PROCEDURES
The written report of evaluation by the group of qualified professionals must include specific recommendations for behavioral supports and interventions. Citations:
 
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
A child with an emotional disturbance is one who has been determined to meet the criteria for emotional disturbance. Citations:
Emotional disturbance means a condition exhibiting one or more of the following characteristics over a long period of time and to a marked degree that adversely affects the child's educational performance:
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  • An inability to learn that cannot be explained by intellectual, sensory, or health factors;
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  • An inability to build or maintain satisfactory interpersonal relationships with peers and teachers;
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  • Inappropriate types of behavior or feelings under normal circumstances;
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  • A general pervasive mood of unhappiness or depression; or
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  • A tendency to develop physical symptoms or fears associated with personal or school problems.
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Emotional disturbance does not apply to a child who is socially maladjusted, unless the child also meets the criteria for having an emotional disturbance. Citations:
Emotional disturbance includes schizophrenia. Citations:
  Last Updated : Wed, Apr 05, 2023