Neurodevelopmental disorders

What are neurodevelopmental disorders?

Neurodevelopmental disorders are disorders usually diagnosed first in infancy, childhood, or adolescence, affecting the development of the nervous system.

What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?

ADHD is characterized by central features of inattention, overactivity, and impulsivity, leading to behavioral, cognitive, social, and academic impairments.

How prevalent is ADHD?

ADHD is present in about 5% of school-aged children worldwide, with the majority diagnosed in the US.

What are the three subtypes of ADHD?

1. Predominantly inattentive presentation 2. Predominantly hyperactive/impulsive presentation 3. Combined presentation.

What is a Specific Learning Disorder?

A Specific Learning Disorder is marked by academic problems in reading, writing, or mathematics that are substantially below expected levels.

What are common learning disorders?

Common learning disorders include Dysgraphia, Dyslexia, and Dyscalculia.

What are the main characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

ASD includes challenges in language, socialization, cognition, restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior, and interests.

What is the prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Currently, about 1 in 68 eight-year-old children meet the criteria for ASD, with a higher prevalence in males.

What is the difference between Intellectual Disability (ID) and Specific Learning Disorders?

ID includes below-average intellectual and adaptive functioning, whereas Specific Learning Disorders involve difficulties in specific academic areas.

What are communication and motor disorders?

These include disorders such as Childhood-onset fluency disorder (stuttering), language disorder (limited speech), and Tourette’s disorder (motor and vocal tics).

What is developmental psychopathology?

Developmental psychopathology is the study of how disorders arise and change over time, considering the impact of early skills disruption on later development.

What are common misconceptions about childhood behavior?

It is cautioned not to excessively pathologize childhood behavior that is part of normal development, such as temper tantrums.

What are the biological contributions to ADHD?

Biological contributions to ADHD include genetic factors, neurobiological correlates such as smaller brain volume, and activity in the frontal cortex and basal ganglia.

What psychosocial factors contribute to ADHD?

Negative peer interactions, peer rejection, high academic demands without support, and poor sleep quality can exacerbate ADHD symptoms.

What is the goal of biological treatment for ADHD?

The goal is to reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity, and improve attention through stimulant medications or non-stimulant alternatives.

What distinguishes a Specific Learning Disorder from general academic difficulties?

Specific Learning Disorders persist for six months despite targeted interventions and are typically more than two standard deviations away from the standard IQ level.

What are the implications of misdiagnosis in learning disorders?

Misdiagnosis can lead to unnecessary medication use, misuse of resources, and lack of self-esteem among children struggling with learning difficulties.

What factors can contribute to Autism Spectrum Disorder?

ASD has significant genetic components, and factors like older parental age are associated with increased risk, while vaccinations do not increase risk.

What treatments are available for Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Treatment options include psychosocial treatments such as skill-building and behavioral approaches, as well as integrative early intervention strategies.