Direct Child Observation in Psychiatry Residency Training

Direct observation of normal children at various stages of development was incorporated into a psychiatry residency program. This experience helps to compensate for the resident's limited contact with normal children and complement his study of personality development and child psychopathology. Three observational experiences are described, followed by typical vignettes. The authors feel that analogous programs could be developed for medical students, pediatric residents, and other health professionals.