The federal definition of Emotional Disturbance has changed little since its inception in the 1970s. However, this disability category is perhaps the most subjective and hardest for school psychologists to understand. This interactive session will review the federal definition of Emotional Disturbance and the associated characteristics commonly seen with each of the five criteria. The workshop will also explore the differences between Emotional Disturbance and Social Maladjustment and provide school psychologists with tools to help distinguish the two. A brief mention of cultural considerations will be discussed. Finally, participants will review some court cases and explore legal precedents for Emotional Disturbance.