Haiden Huskamp published research in Psychiatric Servicesthat provided more insight on the growing use of antipsychotic medications among young children. Among a sample of antipsychotic prescribers studied between 2009 and 2011, over 42 percent had written at least one antipsychotic prescription for young children.

The data showed that doctors who were younger (younger than 40 years old) and doctors in rural areas were more likely to prescribe antipsychotics.

There are few FDA approved uses for these medications in young children, but the researchers postulated that other evidence-based treatments might not have been available. In the paper, they say, "This possibility points to the need for broader interventions focused on the competencies and geographic distribution of the mental health workforce and financing of mental health services.”

Huskamp’s work was highlighted in a Medscape article.