Question

Explain any two disorders under the Neurodevelopmental Disorders category.

Answer 1

1. Autism Spectrum Disorder: Autism Spectrum Disorder is characterised by widespread impairments in social interaction and communication skills and stereotyped patterns of behaviours, interests, and activities. Children with autism spectrum disorder have marked difficulties in social interaction and communication across different contexts, a restricted range of interests, and a strong desire for routine. About 70 percent of children with autism spectrum disorder have intellectual disabilities.
2. Intellectual Disability: Intellectual disability refers to below-average intellectual functioning (with an IQ of approximately 70 or below) and deficits or impairments in adaptive behaviour (i.e., in the areas of communication, self-care, home living, social/interpersonal skills, functional academic skills, work, etc.) that are manifested before the age of 18 years. Table 4.2 describes the characteristics of intellectually disabled persons.
3. Specific Learning Disorder: In the case of a specific learning disorder, the individual experiences difficulty in perceiving or processing information efficiently and accurately. These get manifested during early school years, and the individual encounters problems with basic skills in reading, writing, and/or mathematics. The affected child tends to perform below average for her/his age. However, individuals may be able to reach acceptable performance levels with additional inputs and efforts. A specific learning disorder is likely to impair functioning and performance in activities or occupations dependent on the related skills.
4. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: The two main features of ADHD are inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. Children who are inattentive find it difficult to sustain mental effort during work or play. They have a difficult time keeping their minds on any one thing or in following instructions. Common complaints are that the child does not listen, cannot concentrate, does not follow instructions, is disorganised, easily distracted, forgetful, does not finish assignments, and is quick to lose interest in boring activities. Children who are impulsive seem unable to control their immediate reactions or to think before they act. They find it difficult to wait or take turns, have difficulty resisting immediate temptations or delay gratification.