Nonorganic failure to thrive is a pediatric social illness that can be treated in the home if it is identified early. Factors that contribute to this illness are varied but it is often the result of a faulty maternal-child interaction. In order to determine if the child's condition is organic or inorganic, several parameters need to be explored. Assessment factors and rationale are provided to assist in the evaluation of the child and family so that effective management can be instituted.