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17.24: Introduction to Childhood Disorders

  • Page ID
    137214
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    What you’ll learn to do

    Explain common childhood disorders, including attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder

    Photograph of an autistic boy looking through a fuzzy glass window with his hands pressed against the glass.

    Neurodevelopmental disorders are a group of disorders that are typically diagnosed during childhood and are characterized by developmental deficits in personal, social, academic, and intellectual realms; these disorders include attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder. ADHD is characterized by a pervasive pattern of inattention and/or hyperactive and impulsive behavior that interferes with normal functioning. Genetic and neurobiological factors contribute to the development of ADHD, which can persist well into adulthood and is often associated with poor long-term outcomes. The major features of autism spectrum disorder include deficits in social interaction and communication and repetitive movements or interests. As with ADHD, genetic factors appear to play a prominent role in the development of autism spectrum disorder; exposure to environmental pollutants such as mercury have also been linked to the development of this disorder. Although it is believed by some that autism is triggered by the MMR vaccination, evidence does not support this claim.

    Learning Objectives
    • Describe the symptoms, prevalence, and contributing factors of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
    • Describe the symptoms and prevalence of autism spectrum disorder, as well as the contributing factors that cause the disorder
    • Evaluate scenarios and descriptions to identify and differentiate between psychological disorders

    Contributors and Attributions

    CC LICENSED CONTENT, SHARED PREVIOUSLY


    17.24: Introduction to Childhood Disorders is shared under a not declared license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by LibreTexts.

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