PICA

CRITERIA

• Persistent eating of non-nutritive substances for a period of at least one month.
• Said eating is inappropriate to the developmental level of the individual.
• Said eating is not part of a culturally supported or social normative practices.
• If occurring in the presence of another mental disorder, or during a medical condition, it is severe enough to warrant independent clinical attention.

BIOLOGICAL APPROACH

TREATMENT CAUSES

• In cases of iron deficiency, use iron supplements.
• In case of neural structural issues inhibitor drugs or surgery.

PSYCHODYNAMIC APPROACH

IN MOST INSTANCES

• Through therapy, expose the underlying issue.
• Work to find healthy alternatives.

BEHAVIORAL APPROACH

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• Reward abstinence.
• Negative reinforcement on the action.
• Use a healthy alternative.