Help with encapresis (sp?)?

Question

My 14 year old son has encapresis. (Deficating in his underwear) He has had it for over 4 years now. It started due to some severe family issues that we were having. Those issues have long since cleared up, but the problem persists. He continually steals his brothers and fathers underwear. We have sought medical and mental help to no avail. We have tried discipline, begging, everything I can think of. He always just gets upset and starts crying. Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

Bogus and rude answers will be reported as abuse!

We have gone through therapy! We have seen a medical Dr.

Thank you Rachel. The sight you gave is helpful. I can use it for the rest of the family so that they can better understand the problem.

Answer 1

Here's is a lot of information about encopresis from a wonderful pediatrician in Cleveland:

http://drspock.com/topic/0,1504,152,00.html

Check it out.

Answer 2

Even though the issues have cleared up, he has developed a habit. He needs to be toileted on a regular basis, start with every two hours and get him on a schedule to find out when he usually has bowel movements. Some kids will not have bowel movements in school. Hopefully he does not have Crohns disease Or IBS, or diverticulosis. Keep track of what he eats for the next couple of weeks, spicy foods, seeds, nuts, can agitate those three conditions. You did not mention if he is developmentally delayed in any other way. You also did not mention if he has been tested for bowel disorders. I hope this has helped.

Answer 3

I picked up this answer from Web MD, "Encopresis is the repeated passing of feces into places other than the toilet, such as in underwear or on the floor. This behavior may or may not be done on purpose." Sounds like your son may need to see some sort of therapist to try and get to the root of his problem. There are many different ways to try to get to the problem beside drugs, search around until you find the right remedy for you..Good Luck!

Answer 4

Have you tried just finding him a big brother of sorts, someone who can spend one-on-one time just with him? He does this because it is really the only thing he has personal control over and even though it is totally gross his immaturity allows him to continue. Bottom line, don't yell at him, argue with him, discipline him, or anything other than making him completely wash his own clothing 100%. That is something he should have to do and when he stops then you can discuss doing it for him again. My child found awesome friendships in our church youth group and was able to completely stop (dad and I were going through a divorce and custody battle at that time). It is imperative you be there for him through thick and thin through his adjustment period, and any "mistakes" that might happen through this time. I pray things will get better for him, and I know that sooner or later it will clear up just because he is point blank getting older and peer pressure has a way of helping in that department. But find a local church you can get plugged in with please. For his well being and yours! Prayers for you and yours =)

Answer 5

I think you're making a mistake looking for information on such a serious problem in a forum such as this. You should seek competent psychiatric help for your son at once! And if this means he must be committed for treatment, do it!

Answer 6

He clearly is still in need of counselling. What does he articulate about his problem? That is an important part. Is there a physiological component? That needs to be checked into as well. do not delay in seeking professional help.

Answer 7

good luck,