Ten years ago, stimulants like Ritalin and Adderall were the drugs of choice to treat behavioral issues in children. Today children as young as four years old are being prescribed more powerful anti-psychotic medications that are much less understood. The drugs can cause serious side effects and virtually nothing is known about their long-term impact. \The increase in the use of anti-psychotics is directly tied to the rising incidence of one particular diagnosis - bipolar disorder. Experts estimate that the number of kids with the diagnosis is now over a million and rising. \ With over four million children now on behavior modifiying medications, some starting as young as two years old, FRONTLINE continues its investigation into the controversial practice of medicating kids. Are the drugs safe? How young can you detect mental illness in a child?\As with the debate over medicating children continues to grow, FRONTLINE confronts psychiatrists, researchers, and government regulators about the risks and benefits of prescription drugs for troubled children.

CIRC # 274. Originally broadcast as a segment of the television program Frontline on January 8, 2008. Special feature: Discussion guide.

1. What is going on? -- 2. DJ's story -- 3. The debate and confusion over diagnosing bipolar -- 4. Jessica's story -- 5. The lack of data: what works? What's safe? -- 6. The medication dilemma -- 7. Solutions to the lack of knowledge -- 8. Updates on the stories.