F94 — Disorders of social functioning with onset specific to childhood and adolescence

Concept, in one sentence

A selective failure to speak despite normal language ability (F94.0), or an abnormal social-relatedness pattern specifically tied to a documented history of grossly inadequate care (F94.1/F94.2) — never a flaw in the child.

Decisive boundary cues

• Normal language elsewhere, situation-specific silence -> weighs toward F94.0.
• Documented history of grossly inadequate care present -> weighs toward F94.1/F94.2 being considered.
• No such caregiving history, despite an unusual social pattern -> weighs against F94.1/F94.2.

Duration/course cue

F94.1's characteristic pattern is specifically evident before age 5; onset during early development is required generally.

Nearest alternatives

F80, F84, F93

Common mistake

Diagnosing an attachment disorder from a behavioural pattern alone (clinginess, indiscriminate friendliness, wariness) without confirming the required history of grossly inadequate care.

Retrieval prompt — one-line memory anchor

What specific caregiving history would you need to confirm before considering F94.1 or F94.2?