The National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities (NICHCY) has identified the following characteristics and behaviors as typical of children with emotional disturbances:
* Inappropriate types of behavior under normal circumstances, such as aggression or self-injurious behavior
* Hyperactivity (short attention span, impulsiveness)
* Withdrawal or a general pervasive mood of unhappiness or depression (failure to initiate interaction with others, retreat from exchanges or social interaction, excessive fear or anxiety)
* Development of physical symptoms or fears associated with personal or school problems
* Immaturity (inappropriate crying, temper tantrums, poor coping skills)
* An inability to build and maintain relationships with peers and teachers
* Learning difficulties that cannot be explained by intellectual, sensory, or health factors (academically performing below grade level)