Elimination Disorders are a group of disorders that involve problems with urination or bowel movements that are not due to a medical condition. These disorders are typically diagnosed in children and adolescents, but can also occur in adults.
There are two main types of elimination disorders:
Enuresis: Enuresis is a condition in which a person repeatedly urinates in inappropriate places, such as the bed or clothing, despite being old enough to control their bladder. Enuresis is typically diagnosed in children over the age of 5, and can be primary (when a child has never been consistently dry at night) or secondary (when a child has been dry for at least 6 months but then begins wetting the bed again).
Encopresis: Encopresis is a condition in which a person repeatedly soils their clothing or other inappropriate places with feces, despite being old enough to control their bowel movements. Encopresis is typically diagnosed in children over the age of 4, and can be primary (when a child has never been consistently clean) or secondary (when a child has been clean for at least 6 months but then begins soiling again).
Both enuresis and encopresis can have significant social and emotional consequences for the person affected, and can lead to social isolation, low self-esteem, and other problems if left untreated. Treatment for elimination disorders may include behavioral therapy, medication, and other interventions depending on the individual’s needs and circumstances.
Shervan K Shahhian
LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 