Problem
An 8-year-old male was recently removed from his mother's custody due to negligence and substance use. Minor was placed in a group home and went to a different school district. In the first week of school, the child showed a significant delay in reading and writing compared to his peers. Historically, the child had difficulties in reading, writing, and math; however, he was not attending school on a regular basis and his mother has not been paying attention to his academic performance.
The minor also exhibited symptoms of hyperactivity, distraction, and impulsivity. In the first week of school, the teacher noticed that the child has been aggressive with other kids and was having tantrums frequently. The child was having anger issues and agitation at the group home, where he was hitting his head against the wall when he does not get things his way.
The minor was referred to the mental health clinic and was scheduled for an evaluation. Based on the information you have, please answer the following questions:
A. What is the differential diagnosis?
B. What are the psychopharmacological options that could be used with this child?
C. If you order psychotropic medications, who is supposed to sign the medication consent form?
D. What further testing you will refer the child to receive?
E. What other treatment approaches and interventions could be used to help this child (in school and at home)?