Analysis of Themes and Issues in Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Abstract

The study of neurodevelopmental disorders is beset with many issues and pitfalls. If its types are attempted to be explained at the molar developmental, environmental, and behavioral level, there is another explanation at the molecular brain or genetic level. The clinician can stumble into an error at any level while addressing these conditions. The origins and history of the neurodevelopmental model are followed in this chapter by sections on classification, theories, nature, types, and misperceptions. A lifespan approach, use of clinical reasoning, and decision making to sift critical signals from considerable noise during diagnosis are cautioned. The fears of making no diagnosis, patient's perspective, evidence-based practice, and static versus dynamic diagnosis, cultural practices, and other related issues in Indian scene are addressed. Ongoing and unexplored areas like use of animal models, delay versus difference approach, and contemporary parenting practices are explained with a status report on available treatments and engagements to be undertaken in future.