Neurodevelopmental & Neurocognitive Disorders — Characteristics, Causes, and Treatments Explained | Chapter 13 of Essentials of Abnormal Psychology

Brain function can be disrupted at any age. Chapter 13 of Essentials of Abnormal Psychology examines disorders emerging in early development—like ADHD and autism—and those marked by cognitive decline later in life—like dementia and delirium. This guide covers key symptoms, risk factors, evidence-based treatments, and prevention strategies across the lifespan.

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Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Neurodevelopmental disorders begin in childhood and often persist into adulthood, affecting learning, behavior, and social functioning.

• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Symptoms include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Genetic factors (dopamine dysregulation), smaller brain volume, and prenatal stress contribute. Treatment: Stimulant medications (Ritalin, Adderall), behavioral interventions, and parent training.
• Specific Learning Disorder (SLD): Marked by academic performance below expectations in reading, math, or writing despite average intelligence. Neurobiological differences in language-processing regions play a role. Treatment: Specialized educational programs, cognitive training, and positive reinforcement.
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Characterized by social communication deficits and repetitive behaviors. Genetic predispositions and brain differences (e.g., amygdala, oxytocin system) are implicated—vaccines are not a cause. Treatment: Early interventions like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech therapy, and social skills training.
• Intellectual Disability (ID): Defined by an IQ ≤ 70 and adaptive skill deficits in self-care, social, and practical domains. Causes include genetic syndromes (Down syndrome, Fragile X), prenatal exposures, and deprivation. Treatment: Behavioral interventions, life-skills training, and supported employment.
• Communication & Motor Disorders: - Childhood-Onset Fluency Disorder (stuttering) - Social (Pragmatic) Communication Disorder - Tourette’s Disorder (motor and vocal tics) Treatment: Behavioral therapy, speech interventions, and medications for tics.

Neurocognitive Disorders

Neurocognitive disorders involve acquired cognitive decline, often in later adulthood, disrupting memory, attention, and decision-making.

Delirium

• Rapid-onset confusion, disorientation, and fluctuating attention caused by medical conditions, intoxication/withdrawal, or infections. Treatment: Address underlying cause, environmental reorientation, and low-dose antipsychotics if needed.

Major & Mild Neurocognitive Disorders (Dementia Syndromes)

• Alzheimer’s Disease: Progressive memory loss, amyloid plaques, and neurofibrillary tangles. Treatment: Cholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil), behavioral therapy, and caregiver support.
• Vascular Neurocognitive Disorder: Stepwise decline following strokes or vascular injury. Treatment: Stroke prevention, blood pressure control, and cognitive rehabilitation.
• Frontotemporal Neurocognitive Disorder: Early changes in personality, behavior, and language (e.g., Pick’s disease). Treatment: Symptom management, speech therapy, and structured routines.
• Parkinson’s & Huntington’s Disease: Motor symptoms accompanied by dementia in later stages. Treatment: Disease-specific medications, physical therapy, and cognitive interventions.

Prevention Strategies

• Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Early screening, parent coaching, genetic counseling, and behavioral support.
• Neurocognitive Disorders: Healthy lifestyle (balanced diet, regular exercise, mental stimulation), vascular risk reduction, and social engagement.

Conclusion: A Lifespan Perspective

Chapter 13 underscores that brain disorders can arise from developmental disruptions or age-related decline. By integrating pharmacological, behavioral, and environmental interventions tailored to each stage of life, clinicians can optimize outcomes and support lifelong brain health.

For comprehensive case examples and practical tips, watch the full Chapter 13 video summary. Dive deeper into your textbook and reinforce your mastery with these evidence-based frameworks.

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