Electroconvulsive therapy for minors: Experiences and attitudes of child psychiatrists and psychologists

Objective. To estimate knowledge, experience, and attitudes towards the use of electroconvulsive treatment in miners (patients < 18 years of age), among child and adolescent psychiatrists and psychologists. Method: 1,600 questionnaires were mailed to a group of child and adolescent psychiatrists and psychologists. Result: There were 625 (39%) respondents. 329 (53.8%) of the respondents stated that they possessed minimal knowledge about the use of ECT in children and adolescents. Lack of confidence in providing a second opinion was common and reported by 75%. Compared with those with minimal knowledge. respondents with advanced knowledge reported a higher perception of safety and efficacy. The majority (70%) of the respondents regarded ECT as a treatment of last resort. Conclusion: Many child and adolescent psychiatrists and psychologists have very little knowledge, training, or experience in this treatment. They seem to be ill equipped to appropriately consider or advise patients and families about ECT. Clinical and research implications of these findings are discussed.