Relational problems
 
Relational problem caused by a mental or medical condition:

This  diagnosis presupposes the existence of either a mental disorder or a medical condition, which then leads to a relational problem for two or more people. Thus at least one of the people involved has two problems, one with herself or himself, and one with the other person. All of the people involved receive the relational problem diagnosis.

Parent-child relational problem:

Many parents of children who are in the "terrible twos" or who are going through their adolescent phase may believe that they qualify for this diagnosis. However, there is the usual qualification that the problem has gone beyond normal limits far enough to justify clinical attention, so most parents and children need not apply. Nevertheless, there are enough of these "relational units" that could benefit from professional assistance to keep a lot of mental health professionals busy for a long time.

Partner relational problem:

This is the type of problem that so often leads to the breakup of a family or partner unit; communication breaks down, mutual criticism escalates, and the unit dissolves. Marriage and family therapists specialize in treating this type of problem. More open communication in a non-threatening therapeutic setting can often resolve the issues between partners. 

Sibling relational problem:

This differs from the types above only in that the problem involves siblings rather than partners or parents and children. This diagnosis is less often seen by therapists, but probably deserves more professional attention than it receives.

Relational problem not otherwise specified:

This classification is reserved for other types of relationship problems, for example those that might arise between more distant relatives or co-workers. 

                                                                                                                                Last updated  12/19/03