Definitions for "Separation Anxiety Disorder"
The essential feature is excessive anxiety concerning separation from the home or from those to whom the child is attached. This anxiety is beyond that which is expected for the child's developmental level. The disturbance must last for a period of at least 4 weeks, begin before age 18 years, and cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, academic (occupational), or other important areas of functioning.
Separation anxiety disorder (or simply separation anxiety) is a psychological condition in which an individual has excessive anxiety regarding separation from home, or from those with whom the individual has a strong attachment. Separation anxiety is often characterized by some of the following symptoms: recurring distress when separation from home or subject of attachment occurs or is anticipated; persistent, excessive worry about losing subject of attachment, etc. See also: Treatment
condition that develops before 18 years of age, marked by inappropriate anxiety about being away from home or from people to whom the person is strongly attached.