Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDs) are types of disorders that influence how the brain functions and alters neurological development, causing difficulties in social, cognitive, and emotional functioning. The most common NDs are autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactive disorder (ADHD).1 Many NDs are not as well known or widely studied.
Developmental Disabilities: Types, Causes, Coping
Types
There are many different types of NDs, below are a few of the most prevalent ones;
Attention-deficit/hyperactive disorder (ADHD)
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
Cerebral palsy
Communication disorders
Conduct disorders
Intellectual disabilities
Learning disorders
Neurodevelopmental motor disorders
Prevalence
NDs are more prevalent in males than females. This gender difference may be due to genetics, biology, and risk factors. Although NDs, like ASD, are more present in males, researchers determined not much of a gender difference in symptoms.
Of the 181 participants with ADHD, almost 40\% did not have a comorbid condition, 26\% did however have an anxiety disorder, while others had a variety of other conditions. There appeared to be only 18 children with ASD, and of these boys and girls, 36\% also had ADHD, 44\% had a tic disorder (TD), 36\% had an anxiety disorder, and the others had a variety of other conditions or no comorbidity.
Symptoms of NDs are dependent on the ND, but general descriptions usually consist of impairments with the following;
Memory
Language
Behavior
Motor skills
Learning
Speech
Social skills
Emotions
These impairments must impact social abilities and limit functioning within society.
Treatment
There aren't many treatment options for those with NDs, but research has determined some effective interventions. Although there is no cure for NDs there are methods that help with managing and coping with symptoms.
Behavioral Therapy
Therapies like applied behavioral analysis (ABA), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), speech therapy, and developmental therapy have all been shown to be beneficial for ND symptoms. CBT, Psychotherapy, and other behavioral therapies are utilized for adults with NDs like ADHD. ABA has a significant impact on behavior in children with NDs, especially ASD and ADHD.
Medication
Medication is sometimes prescribed to both children and adults with NDs. For ADHD, specifically, physicians may prescribe medication to help in managing symptoms like hyperactivity, agitation, inattentiveness, etc. Medication may consist of stimulants, antidepressants, or other pharmaceuticals suited to enhance cognition.recreational activities can also play a role in managing symptoms of NDs. It is important to develop healthy lifestyle habits for children and adults with NDs.
Adults with NDs most seek out these types of interventions.