Developmental disorders impair a child’s physical, social, and psychological development before the age of 18. Treatment depends on the severity and manifestation of the impairment. Pervasive and specific developmental disorders affect multiple or single areas of development and are treated with medication and therapy.
Developmental disorders are conditions that impair a child’s physical, social and psychological development and become apparent before the age of 18. A broad spectrum of disorders are classified as developmental in nature and vary in severity and expression. Treatment for a developmental disorder often depends on the nature, degree, and manifestation of the impairment. With early intervention, the prognosis for an individual with a developmental disorder is good with adequate support, treatment, and therapy.
Lifelong cognitive and physical restrictions that impair an individual’s ability to function are known as developmental disabilities and are classified as a developmental disorder. Individuals diagnosed with a form of developmental disorder, such as Down syndrome or an intellectual disability, may experience difficulties functioning and need assistance with independent living skills, learning, self-care, and direction. In cases of intellectual disability, an early diagnosis is difficult to confirm unless a secondary condition, such as Down syndrome, is present.
Pervasive developmental disorders (PDDs) are a group of disorders characterized by impairment of multiple functions, including communication and socialization skills. Also known as autism spectrum disorders, these disorders include Asperger’s syndrome, autism, Rett syndrome, and childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD). The skills, behaviors, and attitudes of children with a diagnosis of PDD are as varied as the symptoms that accompany the associated disorders.
The onset of symptoms for PDD generally occurs before a child is three years old. Parents may notice that the child has difficulty with language, problems relating and interacting with his or her surroundings, and does not adjust well to changes. Children with a pervasive developmental disorder may also exhibit repetitive behaviors or body movements. Some children with PDD are nonverbal, while others are able to talk, but have a limited vocabulary and speak in short sentences.
A diagnosis of PDD is usually made by looking at family history and conducting a physical exam. There is no single diagnostic test to definitively confirm a diagnosis, nor is there a cure for PDD. Treatment for this class of disorders usually includes the use of medications and individualized therapy.
Similar to PDD is another class of disorders, referred to as specific developmental disorders (SDDs). These disorders affect a single area of a child’s development. Divided into distinct categories, specific developmental disorders affect speech and language, academic skills, and motor function.
Language disorders associated with DSD include stuttering, stammering, and aphasia, which are characterized by a loss or impairment of communication skills. Learning disabilities include dyslexia, an inability to write and read, a maths disability known as dyscalculia, and a writing impairment known as dysgraphia. Individuals with impaired motor function associated with SDD may exhibit a lack of physical coordination associated with some aspects of developmental dyspraxia. Specific developmental disorders are often treated with physical therapy, occupational and speech therapy, and individualized tutoring and education.
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