Comparing behaviors typically seen in children and adolescents with chronic fatigue syndrome, depressive disorders and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis

Children and adolescents with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), Depressive Disorders, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) may exhibit similar behaviors, including anxiety/depression, withdrawal, and somatic complaints. These behaviors (as described on the Child Behavior Checklist) were compared across groups. Forty-five children, 15 with each disorder, were selected to participate in this descriptive pilot study. The purpose of this study was to provide a description of these behaviors that are present in each disorder, giving information that may add to the knowledge base of children with these disorders, clarifying diagnosis, and guiding treatment. Children with CFS, Depressive Disorders, and JRA were found not to differ significantly in the behaviors of anxiety/depression or withdrawal. A statistically significant difference was found in the CFS group, indicating a higher level of somatic complaints. Further study is needed to clarify the relationship of somatic complaints in CFS.