Molly is three years old and cries and trembles when her mother is not by her side. Her mom tried to enroll her in preschool, but Molly cried so much she disrupted the other students and could not continue. Molly is a happy little girl when her mom is near her, but she becomes nervous and scared as soon as they are apart. What diagnosis is appropriate for Molly? Explain why (that is, discuss which diagnostic criteria are present).

Based on the symptoms described, it is possible that Molly may be experiencing separation anxiety disorder. This diagnosis is appropriate because Molly's symptoms align with the diagnostic criteria for separation anxiety disorder, which include excessive distress when separated from a major attachment figure, persistent and excessive worry about losing the attachment figure, reluctance or refusal to go out or away from home because of fear of separation, and reluctance or refusal to sleep away from the attachment figure.

Molly's crying and trembling when her mother is not by her side, as well as her disruption of preschool activities due to her distress, are indicative of excessive distress when separated from her mother. Additionally, her persistent fear and worry about being apart from her mother, as well as her reluctance to engage in activities that involve separation, further support the diagnosis of separation anxiety disorder.

It is important for Molly's mother to seek professional help and support for Molly to address her symptoms and provide her with the necessary tools to cope with separation anxiety. With appropriate intervention and support, Molly can learn to manage her anxiety and develop healthy coping mechanisms.