chapter one

CHAPTER ONE: NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS

Neurodevelopmental disorders are usually diagnosed in childhood or infancy and include various intellectual disabilities, communication disorders (e.g., stuttering, language delays), autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, learning disorders, and movement disorders (e.g., tics). These disorders are linked to abnormalities in a child’s neural circuitry.

INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES

Intellectual disabilities are characterized by deficits in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior in individuals under 18. The term “mental retardation” is now replaced by "intellectual disability." Diagnosis isn’t based solely on IQ tests; three criteria must be met: 1) onset before age 18, 2) limitations in intellectual functioning, 3) limitations in adaptive behavior. The DSM-V classifies intellectual developmental disorder as 319, with severity specifiers ranging from mild (IQ 55-70) to profound (IQ <25).

GLOBAL DEVELOPMENTAL DELAY

Global developmental delay (GDD) describes children with significant deficits in intellectual and physical development, often diagnosed before age 5. It replaces previous labels and is temporary for kids too young for formal IQ testing. GDD diagnosis is often a prelude to a later diagnosis of intellectual disability.

COMMUNICATION DISORDERS

Communication disorders involve various language deficits. The DSM-V specifies language disorder is diagnosed if there are problems with achieving normal language abilities affecting social participation and education.

LANGUAGE DISORDER

Diagnosed if language skills are markedly below expected levels, with criteria including consistent problems using and comprehending language, originating in early development, and not attributable to another disorder. Assessments include expressive and receptive language skills.

SPEECH SOUND DISORDER

Previously termed phonological disorder, this affects speech clarity and arises in childhood. Criteria include unintelligible speech affecting communication, impacting school and social life, and must occur early in childhood. Treatments often include physical therapy.

CHILDHOOD-ONSET FLUENCY DISORDER (STUTTERING)

Characterized by disruptions in speech fluency (e.g., repetitions, prolongations, or blocks). Symptoms typically emerge before age 16, with many recovering by adolescence. Significant effects may involve social anxiety or bullying.

SOCIAL (PRAGMATIC) COMMUNICATION DISORDER

New to the DSM-V, this disorder includes problems in social verbal and non-verbal communication, negatively impacting social interactions. Children with SCD do not have cognitive impairments but struggle with engaging socially and understanding conversational rules.

AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER (ASD)

ASD is a developmental disorder with communication and behavior impairments, characterized by deficits in social skills and repetitive behaviors. Reports suggest an incidence of 1 in 68 children, mostly boys. Diagnosis necessitates impairments in both communication and behavior.

ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER (ADHD)

ADHD is diagnosed when symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity/impulsivity last for at least six months, evidenced by poor academic and social performance. Requires at least six symptoms, with onset by age 12.

SPECIFIC LEARNING DISORDERS (SLD)

SLD, affecting 5-15% of children, pertains to difficulties in reading, writing, or mathematics, without being due to sensory issues. Diagnosis involves comprehensive testing; treatment typically includes specialized instructional strategies.

MOTOR DISORDERS

Motor disorders include varied conditions affecting movement. Developmental coordination disorder affects motor skills, while stereotypic movement disorder involves repetitive behaviors like nail-biting or head banging. Tourette’s syndrome involves chronic tics and often pairs with other disorders like OCD. Treatment focuses on behavioral therapies and potentially medications, particularly for associated issues like ADHD.