Possible autism or OCD in 3 yo

[Jahredmom]

My son has been diagonosed with SI and is in OT and and speech for a year. Minimal progress but I was always told something else was wrong by therapist. Went to a mental health specialist who stated it was PDD and a Pyschiatrist who states its OCD and that OCD and PDD are very close.  Psych. prescribed Risperdol which I have never given.  My son started school and now shows aggression and cursing.  He is not toilet trained, minimal speech and bounces off the walls during waking hours. There is some self destructive behavior. There is also times where he seems lucid and acts 'normal' (these are few). Time out causes escalation.  Time in relaxes as well as OT techniques for SI. My question is should I succumb to medication even though though diagnosis is unclear and where should I turn now to get a proper diagnosis?  Has anyone had similar experiences?

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Obtaining a second opinion never hurts. The description you provide does lead in the direction of PDD, and in many youngsters with a PDD diagnosis, OCD-type symptoms are prevalent and the child can display OCD alongside the PDD. The recommendation for medication is not surprising, even though your son is very young. When you use the term 'succumb' to characterize a possible decison to use medication, it implies that medication should be avoided. Try to regard it as a possible sensible intervention, though of course you never want to rush into the use of medication.

[kidcare]

As an Early Interventionists(EI),I have worked with many developmentally delayed children and my son is ADHD and bipolar.  The question of medicating your child is one you will have to decide. Try to have an open mind and think of all the variables..would your son have a better quality of life with meds?  Are you willing to try different meds?  Because what works for one doen't work for the other.  If you have a developmental pediatrician in your area it would be a good person to see your son.  Are you comfortable with the physican and MH worker that is working with your child now?  If not, find someone who will listen to you and be willing to work with you.  are these professionals knowledgable about children's disorders. It may be to your benefit to use pediatric specialists.  If you have access to support groups in your area, talk to other parents and get there opinion on the resources in your area..remember that everyone has their opinion but if you hear the same thing about someone or some group,there could be some truth to it.  I hope you are involved with your local school district because they should be providing services to you.  Contact your special services coordinator if you are not involved.  Most of all be a mom and remember you know your child best.