What does "emotional disturbance" encompass?

Emotional disturbance refers to a range of mental health challenges that significantly impair a student's ability to learn and function in a typical school environment. It encompasses symptoms that present a long-lasting inability to cope with academic tasks or social interactions. This condition can manifest in various ways, including difficulties in relationships, social withdrawal, or pervasive mood disturbances, which affect a student’s educational performance over time.

In contrast, options that involve temporary mood swings, occasional behavioral issues, or minor psychological conditions do not reflect the comprehensive and persistent nature of emotional disturbances as defined by educational and mental health standards. These symptoms must significantly interfere with a student’s educational performance and often require formal assessment and intervention.