Biological factors such as genetics, prenatal exposure to toxins, and brain injury can all contribute to emotional disturbance. Genetics can influence an individual's temperament and susceptibility to mental health disorders, while prenatal exposure to toxins and brain injury can lead to neurological problems that can manifest as emotional disturbance.

Psychological factors such as trauma, neglect, and attachment issues can all contribute to emotional disturbance. Trauma can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other anxiety disorders, while neglect and attachment issues can lead to difficulty regulating emotions and forming healthy relationships.

Social factors such as poverty, discrimination, and family dysfunction can all contribute to emotional disturbance. Poverty can lead to stress and instability, while discrimination can lead to feelings of isolation and low self-esteem. Family dysfunction can also lead to emotional disturbance, as children who grow up in dysfunctional families may not learn how to regulate their emotions or form healthy relationships.

Common symptoms of emotional disturbance include anxiety, depression, irritability, and difficulty regulating emotions. These symptoms can interfere with an individual's ability to function in everyday life and can lead to problems at school, at work, and in relationships.

Treatment for emotional disturbance may include therapy, medication, special education services, or a combination of these approaches. Therapy can help individuals learn how to manage their emotions and develop coping mechanisms, while medication can help to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Special education services can provide support for students with emotional disturbance in the school setting.