Elimination Disorders

Elimination Disorders involve difficulties in the regular release of urine (enuresis) and feces (encopresis). These difficulties are not physiological but are linked to psychological causes. The individual delays elimination due to concerns such as the use of a bathroom other than their own, social anxiety, or performance anxiety.

Generally, these disorders begin in childhood. Most children achieve continence by adolescence, but it is estimated that around 1% of cases persist into adulthood.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Enuresis is characterized by:

1. Repeated urination in inappropriate places, either involuntarily or intentionally.
2. Episodes occur at least twice a week for no less than three consecutive months, causing significant distress.
3. The individual is at least 5 years old.
4. There is no better explanation for the symptoms.

According to the DSM-5, Encopresis is characterized by:

1. Repeated defecation in inappropriate places, either involuntarily or intentionally.
2. Episodes occur at least once a month for no less than three consecutive months.
3. The individual is at least 4 years old.
4. There is no better explanation for the symptoms.

Sources

• American Psychiatric Association (2013) - Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.).
• Bernhill, J. W. (2014) - DSM-5 Clinical Cases.

If you’d like me to describe another psychology topic in my own words, feel free to ask in the comments!