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Difference between revisions of "Special Needs"

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=Common Mental, Physical, Emotional Disabilities=
 
=Common Mental, Physical, Emotional Disabilities=
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==[[Attention Deficit Disorder]] (or "[[ADD]]"):==
 
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This term describes a lifelong [[Developmental Disability|developmental disability]] that can first be detected in infancy, early childhood or even in [[adolescence]], and which affects a child's ability to concentrate and control impulses and behavior. A child who has [[ADD]] is not hyperactive, but will often experience a difficulty sustaining a functional level of attention in connection with the performance of normal life task or play activities, and may also experience difficulty in persisting with tasks to completion, or in sustaining concentrating for longer periods of time. For more information, see [[Attention Deficit Disorder]] page.
 
  
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==[[Attention Deficit Hyper Activity Disorder]] (or "[[ADHD]]"):==  
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==[[Abuse and Neglect: How is Abuse and Neglect Defined by Law?|Abuse and Neglect]]==
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'''What is Child [[Abuse]] and [[Neglect]]'''
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#[[Abuse and Neglect: How is Abuse and Neglect Defined by Law?|How is Abuse and Neglect Defined by Law?]]
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#[[Abuse and Neglect: Recognizing the Signs of Abuse and Neglect|Recognizing the Signs of Abuse and Neglect]]
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#[[Abuse and Neglect: The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Wellbeing|The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Wellbeing]]
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'''Understanding the Effects of [[Maltreatment]] on Brain Development'''
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#[[Abuse and Neglect: How the Brain Develops|How the Brain Develops]]
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#[[Abuse and Neglect: Effects of Maltreatment on Brain Development|Effects of Maltreatment on Brain Development]]
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#[[Abuse and Neglect: Implications for Practice and Policy|Implications for Practice and Policy]]
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#[[Abuse and Neglect: Effects of Maltreatment on Brain Development Summary and Resources|Effects of Maltreatment on Brain Development Summary and Resources]]
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'''Long-Term Consequences of Child [[Abuse]] and [[Neglect]]'''
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#[[Abuse and Neglect: Factors Affecting the Consequences of Child Abuse and Neglect| Factors Affecting the Consequences of Child Abuse and Neglect]]
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#[[Abuse and Neglect: Psychological Consequences| Psychological Consequences]]
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#[[Abuse and Neglect: Behavioral Consequences| Behavioral Consequences]]
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#[[Abuse and Neglect: Societal Consequences| Societal Consequences]]
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#[[Abuse and Neglect: Summary and Resources| Summary and Resources]]
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'''Preventing Child [[Abuse]] and [[Neglect]]'''
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#[[Abuse and Neglect: Prevention Strategies and Protective Factors|Prevention Strategies and Protective Factors]]
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'''Child [[Maltreatment]]: Past, Present, Future'''
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#[[Abuse and Neglect: Scope of the Problem|Scope of the Problem]]
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#[[Abuse and Neglect: Promising Prevention Strategies|Promising Prevention Strategies]]
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#[[Abuse and Neglect: Looking Toward the Future|Looking Toward the Future]]
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==[[Attention Deficit Hyper Activity Disorder|Attention Deficit Disorder or Attention Deficit Activity Disorder]] (or "[[ADHD|ADD or ADHD]]"):==
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*What is [[ADHD]] ([[ADD]])
 +
*What are the Symptoms of [[ADHD]]
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*Does My Child Have [[ADHD]]
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*What Can I Do if I Think My Child Has [[ADHD]]
 
This term describes a lifelong [[Developmental Disability|developmental disability]] that can first be detected in infancy, early childhood or even in [[adolescence]], and which involves challenges with attention span, impulse control, and the intensity level of activities at school, home or at work. Typical behavior would include such things as distractibility; difficulty with following instructions or in waiting for turns within groups; a difficulty with staying on task with chores or play activities; a difficulty with sitting or playing quietly; inattention; restlessness; and engaging in physically harmful or dangerous activities, without a concern for the resulting consequences for self or others. For more information, see [[Attention Deficit Hyper Activity Disorder]] page.
 
This term describes a lifelong [[Developmental Disability|developmental disability]] that can first be detected in infancy, early childhood or even in [[adolescence]], and which involves challenges with attention span, impulse control, and the intensity level of activities at school, home or at work. Typical behavior would include such things as distractibility; difficulty with following instructions or in waiting for turns within groups; a difficulty with staying on task with chores or play activities; a difficulty with sitting or playing quietly; inattention; restlessness; and engaging in physically harmful or dangerous activities, without a concern for the resulting consequences for self or others. For more information, see [[Attention Deficit Hyper Activity Disorder]] page.
  
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==[[Anti-Social Behavior]]:==  
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==[[Attachment_(Glossary)|Attachment]]:==
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This term generally refers to actions that deviate significantly from established social norms. Behavior that fits within this definition will vary to some degree, based on the social environment in which the child lives. This kind of behavior commonly includes skipping school, getting into fights, running away from home, persistently lying, using illegal drugs or alcohol, stealing, vandalizing property, engaging in aggressive or violent behavior towards other individuals, and violating school rules, home rules or local criminal laws. For more information, see [[Anti-Social Behavior]] page.
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*Building attachment with an [[adopted]] child
  
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==[[Attachment_(Glossary)|Attachment]]:==
 
 
The formation by a child of significant and stable emotional connections with the significant people in its life. This process begins in early infancy as the child bonds with one or more primary caregivers. A failure by a child to establish these types of important connections before the age of about five years may result in the child experiencing difficulties with a wide variety of social relationships for significant periods of time in its life. Severe cases can fit within the definition of a more permanent condition known as "[[Reactive Attachment Disorder|reactive attachment disorder]].” For more information, see [[Attachment_(Glossary)|Attachment]] page.
 
The formation by a child of significant and stable emotional connections with the significant people in its life. This process begins in early infancy as the child bonds with one or more primary caregivers. A failure by a child to establish these types of important connections before the age of about five years may result in the child experiencing difficulties with a wide variety of social relationships for significant periods of time in its life. Severe cases can fit within the definition of a more permanent condition known as "[[Reactive Attachment Disorder|reactive attachment disorder]].” For more information, see [[Attachment_(Glossary)|Attachment]] page.
  
 
==[[Autism]]:==
 
==[[Autism]]:==
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*What is [[Autism]] Spectrum Disorder
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*What are Some Signs of ASD
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*What Can I Do if I Think My Child Has ASD
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[[Autism]] is a developmental brain disorder with physical and behavioral components. It affects the brain areas controlling language, social interaction, and abstract thought. Symptoms may include: communication difficulties, emotional problems, intellectual disability, and sensitivity to sensory stimuli. [[Autism]] spectrum disorders include pervasive developmental disorder, Asperger syndrome, Retts syndrome, and childhood disintegrative disorder; any of these terms may be used interchangeably with the term [[autism]]. Services that may be beneficial for a child with [[autism]] include: educational training, speech therapy, language therapy, medication, and [[Occupational Therapy|occupational therapy]]. (www.childwelfare.gov) For more information, see [[Autism]] page.
 
[[Autism]] is a developmental brain disorder with physical and behavioral components. It affects the brain areas controlling language, social interaction, and abstract thought. Symptoms may include: communication difficulties, emotional problems, intellectual disability, and sensitivity to sensory stimuli. [[Autism]] spectrum disorders include pervasive developmental disorder, Asperger syndrome, Retts syndrome, and childhood disintegrative disorder; any of these terms may be used interchangeably with the term [[autism]]. Services that may be beneficial for a child with [[autism]] include: educational training, speech therapy, language therapy, medication, and [[Occupational Therapy|occupational therapy]]. (www.childwelfare.gov) For more information, see [[Autism]] page.
  
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==[[Bipolar Disorder]]:==  
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==[[Bipolar Disorder]]:==
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#[[Bipolar Disorder: What is Bipolar Disorder|What is Bipolar Disorder]]
 
#[[Bipolar Disorder: What is Bipolar Disorder|What is Bipolar Disorder]]
 
#[[Bipolar Disorder: Causes|Causes]]
 
#[[Bipolar Disorder: Causes|Causes]]
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This term is used to describe a form of mental illnesses in which moods and reactions are affect, and which is characterized by irregular cycles of mania and/or depression. During manic the periods, the affected individual may be in a very elevated mood and exhibit symptoms of hyperactivity, wakefulness, distractibility or even irritability. Psychotic symptoms may also be present in very extreme manic episodes. During the depressive periods, affected individuals can exhibit sustained symptoms of depression, disinterest in most activities, fatigue, sleep disturbance, ranging anywhere from insomnia to hypersomnia, weight [[loss]], weight gain, and sluggish or delayed mental reasoning. For more information, start with the [[What is Bipolar Disorder]] page.
 
This term is used to describe a form of mental illnesses in which moods and reactions are affect, and which is characterized by irregular cycles of mania and/or depression. During manic the periods, the affected individual may be in a very elevated mood and exhibit symptoms of hyperactivity, wakefulness, distractibility or even irritability. Psychotic symptoms may also be present in very extreme manic episodes. During the depressive periods, affected individuals can exhibit sustained symptoms of depression, disinterest in most activities, fatigue, sleep disturbance, ranging anywhere from insomnia to hypersomnia, weight [[loss]], weight gain, and sluggish or delayed mental reasoning. For more information, start with the [[What is Bipolar Disorder]] page.
  
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==[[Central Auditory Processing Disorder]] ([[CAPD]]):==  
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==[[Central Auditory Processing Disorder]] ([[CAPD]]):==
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This term describes a condition in which the affected individual, whose hearing capabilities are otherwise functionally sound, will have difficulty understanding and processing information that is heard. It is believed that this occurs as the result of a communication breakdown somewhere between the ear and the parts of the brain that receive and interpret hearing stimuli. All of the possible causes of this disorder are still not known, but those that are known include: head trauma, lead poisoning, and possibly chronic ear infections. Because of the wide variety of possible causes of this disorder, and the strong likelihood of the existence of multiple contributing causes, each suspected case needs to be carefully evaluated on an individual basis. For more information, see [[Central Auditory Processing Disorder]] page.  
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This term describes a condition in which the affected individual, whose hearing capabilities are otherwise functionally sound, will have difficulty understanding and processing information that is heard. It is believed that this occurs as the result of a communication breakdown somewhere between the ear and the parts of the brain that receive and interpret hearing stimuli. All of the possible causes of this disorder are still not known, but those that are known include: head trauma, lead poisoning, and possibly chronic ear infections. Because of the wide variety of possible causes of this disorder, and the strong likelihood of the existence of multiple contributing causes, each suspected case needs to be carefully evaluated on an individual basis. For more information, see [[Central Auditory Processing Disorder]] page.
 +
 
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==[[Cerebral Palsy]] (CP):==
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*What is [[Cerebral Palsy]]
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*What are Common Signs
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*What are Some Causes
  
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==[[Cerebral Palsy]] (CP):==
 
 
This a very broad umbrella term that is used to describe a group of chronic, non-hereditary condition of varying severity that are believed to be the result of faulty development of, or damage to, the motor areas in the brain, which then causes a [[disruption]] in the brain's ability to control muscular movement and posture. The brain damage and/or developmental problems that cause CP can take place before, during, or after birth, and can affect muscular control and movement in one or more parts of the body. Depending on the parts of the brain that are involved, affected individuals may also experience speech control problems, but will often enjoy very normal mental capabilities. Some of the causes of [[Cerebral Palsy|cerebral palsy]] that have been identified through [[research]], and which to some degree are considered to be preventable or treatable, are: jaundice, head injury, Rh blood factor incompatibility, and German measles (rubella). For more information, see [[Cerebral Palsy]] page.
 
This a very broad umbrella term that is used to describe a group of chronic, non-hereditary condition of varying severity that are believed to be the result of faulty development of, or damage to, the motor areas in the brain, which then causes a [[disruption]] in the brain's ability to control muscular movement and posture. The brain damage and/or developmental problems that cause CP can take place before, during, or after birth, and can affect muscular control and movement in one or more parts of the body. Depending on the parts of the brain that are involved, affected individuals may also experience speech control problems, but will often enjoy very normal mental capabilities. Some of the causes of [[Cerebral Palsy|cerebral palsy]] that have been identified through [[research]], and which to some degree are considered to be preventable or treatable, are: jaundice, head injury, Rh blood factor incompatibility, and German measles (rubella). For more information, see [[Cerebral Palsy]] page.
  
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==[[Conduct Disorder]]:==  
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==[[Developmental Disability]]:==
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A behavioral condition involving a pattern of repetitive and persistent conduct that infringes on the basic rights of others or does not conform to established societal norms or rules that are appropriate for a child of that age. A child or teen with [[Conduct Disorder|conduct disorder]] may display aggressive or even cruel behavior toward other people, which can include bullying or threatening others; initiating fights; using weapons that could cause serious harm and forcing others into undesired sexual contact or activities. Individuals affected with the disorder may also engage in non-aggressive behaviors that can include a [[loss]] or damage to property, deceitfulness, theft, lying, breaking promises and irresponsibility with debts and other legal obligations. Children and [[teens]] that are affected with this disorder have been found to persistently engage in serious violations of rules that lead to confrontations at home, at school and/or in the workplace. [[Conduct Disorder|Conduct disorder]] has been known to lead to the development of other anti-social disorders during adulthood. For more information, see [[Conduct Disorder]] page.
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*Facts
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*Developmental Milestones
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*Concerns
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*Monitoring and Screening for Disability
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*Causes and Risk Factors
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*Who is Affected
 +
*Living With a [[Developmental Disability]]
  
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==[[Developmental Disability]]:==
 
 
This term refers to a severe and chronic impairment, which can be attributed to one or more mental or physical impairments which will require specific and lifelong or extended care that is individually planned and coordinated, and which had an onset before age 22, and which is likely to continue indefinitely. The condition or conditions must create substantial functional limitations in three or more of the following areas of major life activity: 1) self care, 2) language skills, 3) learning, 4) personal mobility, 5) self-direction, 6) potential for [[Independent Living|independent living]] and 7) potential for economic self-sufficiency as an adult. For more information, see [[Developmental Disability]] page.
 
This term refers to a severe and chronic impairment, which can be attributed to one or more mental or physical impairments which will require specific and lifelong or extended care that is individually planned and coordinated, and which had an onset before age 22, and which is likely to continue indefinitely. The condition or conditions must create substantial functional limitations in three or more of the following areas of major life activity: 1) self care, 2) language skills, 3) learning, 4) personal mobility, 5) self-direction, 6) potential for [[Independent Living|independent living]] and 7) potential for economic self-sufficiency as an adult. For more information, see [[Developmental Disability]] page.
  
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==[[Down Syndrome]]:==  
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==[[Down Syndrome]]:==
 +
*What is [[Down Syndrome]]
 +
*Types of [[Down Syndrome]]
 +
*Causes and Risk Factors
 +
*Diagnosis
 +
*Other Health Problems
 +
*Living With [[Down Syndrome]]
 +
 
 
A genetic disorder that is caused by the presence of an extra chromosome, which results in varying degrees of physical and mental abnormality. Physical characteristics of the syndrome include a flattened face, widely spaced and slanted eyes, comparatively smaller head size and lax joints. Although not present in all cases, [[Mental Retardation|mental retardation]] is typical. Those who are affected with the syndrome display a wide variety in mental, behavior and developmental capabilities, and will have a high propensity to suffer from common health problems, include a low resistance to infection, pronounced hearing [[loss]], gastrointestinal problems, and heart defects. For more information, see [[Down Syndrome]] page.
 
A genetic disorder that is caused by the presence of an extra chromosome, which results in varying degrees of physical and mental abnormality. Physical characteristics of the syndrome include a flattened face, widely spaced and slanted eyes, comparatively smaller head size and lax joints. Although not present in all cases, [[Mental Retardation|mental retardation]] is typical. Those who are affected with the syndrome display a wide variety in mental, behavior and developmental capabilities, and will have a high propensity to suffer from common health problems, include a low resistance to infection, pronounced hearing [[loss]], gastrointestinal problems, and heart defects. For more information, see [[Down Syndrome]] page.
 
   
 
   
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==[[Drug and Alcohol Exposure]]:==  
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==[[Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders]]:==
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Physical or cognitive deficits, which can range form mild to severe, that a child experiences as the result of alcohol consumption by its mother during [[pregnancy]]. For more information, see [[Drug and Alcohol Exposure]] page.
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*What are [[Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders]]
 +
*Treatments
 +
*Early Intervention Services
 +
*Protective Factors
 +
*Types of Treatments
 +
This term refers to certain birth defects, and serious, life-long mental and emotional impairments that may be suffered by a child as the result of heavy alcohol consumption by its mother during [[pregnancy]]. Symptoms of mental and emotional deficits may include significant learning and behavioral disorders (including attention deficits and hyperactivity), poor social judgment, diminished cause-and-effect thinking, and impulsive behaviors. For more information, see [[Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders]] page.
  
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==[[Emotional Disturbance]]:==  
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==[[Learning Disabilities: What are Learning Disabilities?|Learning Disabilities]] (LD):==
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Severe, pervasive or chronic emotional/affective condition which prevents a child from performing everyday tasks. This condition is characterized by an inability to build or maintain relationships, inappropriate behaviors or feelings under normal circumstances, a pervasive mood of unhappiness or depression, or a tendency to develop physical symptoms or fears related to personal or school problems. Children may require special classrooms and teachers trained to help children with these special needs. School systems may have varying "levels" and [[processes]] for educational planning. For more information, see [[Emotional Disturbance]] page.
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#[[Learning Disabilities: What are Learning Disabilities?|What are Learning Disabilities?]]
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#[[Learning Disabilities: Causes|Causes]]
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#[[Learning Disabilities: Symptoms|Symptoms]]
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#[[Learning Disabilities: Who's at Risk?|Who's at Risk?]]
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#[[Learning Disabilities: Diagnosis|Diagnosis]]
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#[[Learning Disabilities: Treatments|Treatments]]
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#[[Learning Disabilities: Is There a Cure?|Is There a Cure?]]
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#[[Learning Disabilities: Other Facts|Other Facts]]
  
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==[[Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders]]:==
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One or more impairments that a child may have in such areas as reading, mathematics and/or written expression skills, which interfere with the expected academic performance of the child in school, or in other daily activities that require those skills. Performance on standardized tests that is below that which would be expected for the child's age, schooling and level of intelligence are customarily used as preliminary diagnostic tools to identify areas where children are experiencing difficulties. Children with [[Learning Disabilities|learning disabilities]] may be of average or above average intelligence, but experience difficulty in learning, differentiating, processing, storing and/or otherwise maximizing their use of information. Some children with LD will find it difficult to learn in a conventional classroom environment, and may need to attend LD classes for a period of time in order to help them achieve their potential in school. The presence of [[Learning Disabilities|learning disabilities]] is not limited to children that are [[adopted]], and will generally be just about as common in the general population as they are among children that are [[adopted]]. For more information, see the [[Learning Disabilities: What are Learning Disabilities?]] page.
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This term refers to certain birth defects, and serious, life-long mental and emotional impairments that may be suffered by a child as the result of heavy alcohol consumption by its mother during [[pregnancy]]. Symptoms of mental and emotional deficits may include significant learning and behavioral disorders (including attention deficits and hyperactivity), poor social judgment, diminished cause-and-effect thinking, and impulsive behaviors. For more information, see [[Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders]] page.
+
  
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==[[Learning Disabilities]] (LD):==  
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==[[Mental Retardation| Mental Retardation or Intellectual Disability]]:==
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One or more impairments that a child may have in such areas as reading, mathematics and/or written expression skills, which interfere with the expected academic performance of the child in school, or in other daily activities that require those skills. Performance on standardized tests that is below that which would be expected for the child's age, schooling and level of intelligence are customarily used as preliminary diagnostic tools to identify areas where children are experiencing difficulties. Children with [[Learning Disabilities|learning disabilities]] may be of average or above average intelligence, but experience difficulty in learning, differentiating, processing, storing and/or otherwise maximizing their use of information. Some children with LD will find it difficult to learn in a conventional classroom environment, and may need to attend LD classes for a period of time in order to help them achieve their potential in school. The presence of [[Learning Disabilities|learning disabilities]] is not limited to children that are [[adopted]], and will generally be just about as common in the general population as they are among children that are [[adopted]]. For more information, see [[Learning Disabilities]] page.
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*What is intellectual disability?
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*What are some signs of intellectual disability?
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*What can I do if I think my child may have intellectual disability?
  
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==[[Mental Retardation]]:==
 
 
Impaired or incomplete mental development characterized by an IQ of 70 or below and characterized by significant functional limitations in at least two of the following skills: communication, self-care, home living, social/interpersonal skills, use of community resources, self-direction, functional academic skills, work, leisure, health, and safety. Onset usually occurs before age 18. More than 200 specific causes of [[Mental Retardation|mental retardation]] have been identified. For more information, see [[Mental Retardation]] page.
 
Impaired or incomplete mental development characterized by an IQ of 70 or below and characterized by significant functional limitations in at least two of the following skills: communication, self-care, home living, social/interpersonal skills, use of community resources, self-direction, functional academic skills, work, leisure, health, and safety. Onset usually occurs before age 18. More than 200 specific causes of [[Mental Retardation|mental retardation]] have been identified. For more information, see [[Mental Retardation]] page.
  
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==[[Oppositional Defiant Disorder]]:==
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==[[Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder]]:==
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A recurrent pattern of negativitistic, defiant, disobedient, and hostile behavior toward authority figures that persists for at least six months. This disorder is characterized by frequent occurrence of at least four of the following behaviors: frequent [[loss]] of temper, tendency to argue with adults, refusal to obey adult rules or requests, deliberate behaviors to annoy others, spiteful and vindictive behavior, being touchy or easily annoyed by others, being angry and resentful, use of obscene language, and a tendency to blame others for mistakes or misbehaviors. Symptoms are less severe than those associated with [[Conduct Disorder]] but sometimes indicate the early stages of [[Conduct Disorder]] (CD) and may sometimes lead to the development of Anti-social Personality Disorder during adulthood. For more information, see [[Oppositional Defiant Disorder]].
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#[[Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder|What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder]]
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+
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==[[Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder]]:==  
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+
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#[[Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: What is Bipolar Disorder|What is Bipolar Disorder]]
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#[[Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Causes|Causes]]
 
#[[Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Causes|Causes]]
 
#[[Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Signs and Symptoms|Signs and Symptoms]]
 
#[[Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Signs and Symptoms|Signs and Symptoms]]
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A condition in which victims of overwhelming and uncontrollable experiences are subsequently psychologically affected by feelings of intense fear, [[loss]] of safety, [[loss]] of control, helplessness, and extreme vulnerability and in children the disorder involves disorganized or agitated behavior. For more information, see [[Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder]] page.
 
A condition in which victims of overwhelming and uncontrollable experiences are subsequently psychologically affected by feelings of intense fear, [[loss]] of safety, [[loss]] of control, helplessness, and extreme vulnerability and in children the disorder involves disorganized or agitated behavior. For more information, see [[Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder]] page.
  
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==[[Prenatal Substance Exposure]]:==
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==[[Reactive Attachment Disorder]] (or [[RAD]]):==
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Fetal exposure to maternal drug and alcohol use which can significantly increase the risk for developmental and neurological disabilities. The effects can range from severe (neurological damage and growth retardation) to minor (resulting in normal outcomes). [[Infant]] and child long-term development depends not only on the prenatal exposure (type of drug, amount, length of time of use), but on factors related to the child's own biological vulnerability and environmental conditions. For more information, see [[Prenatal Substance Exposure]] page.
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*Signs of [[RAD]]
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*Services that may be beneficial
  
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==[[Reactive Attachment Disorder]] (or [[RAD]]):==
 
 
This term is used to describe a condition that generally appears in children before age five, and is thought to result from a lack of consistent care and nurturing in early years. The disorder is characterized by the inability of a child or [[infant]] to establish age- appropriate social contact and relationships with others. Symptoms of the disorder may include a failure to thrive, developmental delays, a refusal to make eye contact, feeding difficulties, hyper-sensitivity to sound and/or touch, failure to initiate or respond to social interactions with others, self-stimulation, indiscriminate sociability and a an unusually high susceptibility to infections. For more information, see [[Reactive Attachment Disorder]] page.
 
This term is used to describe a condition that generally appears in children before age five, and is thought to result from a lack of consistent care and nurturing in early years. The disorder is characterized by the inability of a child or [[infant]] to establish age- appropriate social contact and relationships with others. Symptoms of the disorder may include a failure to thrive, developmental delays, a refusal to make eye contact, feeding difficulties, hyper-sensitivity to sound and/or touch, failure to initiate or respond to social interactions with others, self-stimulation, indiscriminate sociability and a an unusually high susceptibility to infections. For more information, see [[Reactive Attachment Disorder]] page.
  
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==[[Sexual Abuse]] Symptoms:==  
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==[[Sexual Abuse: Educating Yourself|Sexual Abuse]]:==
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Indicators and behaviors which suggest that a child may have been sexually abused, including: excessive masturbation, sexual interaction with peers, sexual aggression towards younger and more naive children, seductive behavior, and promiscuity. For more information, see [[Sexual Abuse]] page.
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'''Parenting a Child Who Has Been Sexually Abused'''
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#[[Sexual Abuse: Educating Yourself|Educating Yourself]]
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#[[Sexual Abuse: Establishing Family Guidelines for Safety and Privacy|Establishing Family Guidelines for Safety and Privacy]]
 +
 
 +
Indicators and behaviors which suggest that a child may have been sexually abused, including: excessive masturbation, sexual interaction with peers, sexual aggression towards younger and more naive children, seductive behavior, and promiscuity. For more information, see [[Sexual Abuse: Educating Yourself|Sexual Abuse]] page.
 +
 
 +
==Social Disorders==
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*[[Anti-Social Behavior]]
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*[[Conduct Disorder]]
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*[[Emotional Disturbance]]
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*[[Oppositional Defiant Disorder]]
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==[[Speech and Language Disorders]]:==
 +
*How Do Speech and Language Develop
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*What Are the Milestones for Speech and Language Development
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*What is the Difference Between a Speech and Language Disorder
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*What Should I Do if My Child’s Speech or Language Appears to be Delayed
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*What [[Research]] is Being Conducted
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*What Are Voice, Speech, and Language
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*Your Child’s Hearing and Communicative Development Checklist
 +
 
 +
Impairments of speech or receptive language. Speech disorders usually involved difficulties with articulation which can generally be improved or resolved with speech therapy, usually requiring treatment over months or years. Language disorders, on the other hand, often result in substantial learning problems, involving difficulty with language comprehension, expression, word-finding and/or speech discrimination. Treatment by a language therapist generally leads to improvement in functional communication skills, although treatment cannot be generally expected to eradicate the problem. For more information, see [[Speech and Language Disorders]] page.
  
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==[[Speech and Language Disorders]]:==  
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==[[Tourette's Syndrome: What is Tourette's Syndrome?|Tourette's Syndrome]]:==
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Impairments of speech or receptive language. Speech disorders usually involved difficulties with articulation which can generally be improved or resolved with speech therapy, usually requiring treatment over months or years. Language disorders, on the other hand, often result in substantial learning problems, involving difficulty with language comprehension, expression, word-finding and/or speech discrimination. Treatment by a language therapist generally leads to improvement in functional communication skills, although treatment cannot be generally expected to eradicate the problem. For more information, see [[Speech and Language Disorders]] page.
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#[[Tourette’s Syndrome: What is Tourette’s Syndrome?|What is Tourette’s Syndrome?]]
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#[[Tourette’s Syndrome: Diagnosis|Diagnosis]]
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#[[Tourette’s Syndrome: Treatments|Treatments]]
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#[[Tourette’s Syndrome: Other Concerns and Conditions|Other Concerns and Conditions]]
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#[[Tourette’s Syndrome: Risk Factors and Causes|Risk Factors and Causes]]
  
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==[[Tourette's Syndrome]]:==
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A treatable neurological disorder that consists of involuntary "tic" movements or vocalizations that become more apparent under stress. Common manifestations include shoulder-shrugging, neck-jerking, facial twitches, coughing, grunting, throat clearing, sniffing, snorting, and barking. Children with Tourette's often have problems with hyperactivity as well. For more information, see [[Tourette's Syndrome: What is Tourette's Syndrome?]] page.
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A treatable neurological disorder that consists of involuntary "tic" movements or vocalizations that become more apparent under stress. Common manifestations include shoulder-shrugging, neck-jerking, facial twitches, coughing, grunting, throat clearing, sniffing, snorting, and barking. Children with Tourette's often have problems with hyperactivity as well. For more information, see [[Tourette's Syndrome]] page.  
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Return to [[Adoption Wiki]]
 
Return to [[Adoption Wiki]]

Revision as of 19:04, 21 October 2014

Special Needs Adoption

What Does Special Needs Adoption Mean?

  • Definitions
  • Eligibility
  • Making the decision
  • Getting started
  • Financial and health-care assistance
  • Postadoption services

Common Mental, Physical, Emotional Disabilities

Abuse and Neglect

What is Child Abuse and Neglect

  1. How is Abuse and Neglect Defined by Law?
  2. Recognizing the Signs of Abuse and Neglect
  3. The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Wellbeing

Understanding the Effects of Maltreatment on Brain Development

  1. How the Brain Develops
  2. Effects of Maltreatment on Brain Development
  3. Implications for Practice and Policy
  4. Effects of Maltreatment on Brain Development Summary and Resources

Long-Term Consequences of Child Abuse and Neglect

  1. Factors Affecting the Consequences of Child Abuse and Neglect
  2. Psychological Consequences
  3. Behavioral Consequences
  4. Societal Consequences
  5. Summary and Resources

Preventing Child Abuse and Neglect

  1. Prevention Strategies and Protective Factors

Child Maltreatment: Past, Present, Future

  1. Scope of the Problem
  2. Promising Prevention Strategies
  3. Looking Toward the Future

Attention Deficit Disorder or Attention Deficit Activity Disorder (or "ADD or ADHD"):

  • What is ADHD (ADD)
  • What are the Symptoms of ADHD
  • Does My Child Have ADHD
  • What Can I Do if I Think My Child Has ADHD

This term describes a lifelong developmental disability that can first be detected in infancy, early childhood or even in adolescence, and which involves challenges with attention span, impulse control, and the intensity level of activities at school, home or at work. Typical behavior would include such things as distractibility; difficulty with following instructions or in waiting for turns within groups; a difficulty with staying on task with chores or play activities; a difficulty with sitting or playing quietly; inattention; restlessness; and engaging in physically harmful or dangerous activities, without a concern for the resulting consequences for self or others. For more information, see Attention Deficit Hyper Activity Disorder page.

Attachment:

  • Building attachment with an adopted child

The formation by a child of significant and stable emotional connections with the significant people in its life. This process begins in early infancy as the child bonds with one or more primary caregivers. A failure by a child to establish these types of important connections before the age of about five years may result in the child experiencing difficulties with a wide variety of social relationships for significant periods of time in its life. Severe cases can fit within the definition of a more permanent condition known as "reactive attachment disorder.” For more information, see Attachment page.

Autism:

  • What is Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • What are Some Signs of ASD
  • What Can I Do if I Think My Child Has ASD

Autism is a developmental brain disorder with physical and behavioral components. It affects the brain areas controlling language, social interaction, and abstract thought. Symptoms may include: communication difficulties, emotional problems, intellectual disability, and sensitivity to sensory stimuli. Autism spectrum disorders include pervasive developmental disorder, Asperger syndrome, Retts syndrome, and childhood disintegrative disorder; any of these terms may be used interchangeably with the term autism. Services that may be beneficial for a child with autism include: educational training, speech therapy, language therapy, medication, and occupational therapy. (www.childwelfare.gov) For more information, see Autism page.

Bipolar Disorder:

  1. What is Bipolar Disorder
  2. Causes
  3. Signs and Symptoms
  4. Who is at Risk?
  5. Diagnosis
  6. Treatments
  7. Living With
  8. Clinical Trials

This term is used to describe a form of mental illnesses in which moods and reactions are affect, and which is characterized by irregular cycles of mania and/or depression. During manic the periods, the affected individual may be in a very elevated mood and exhibit symptoms of hyperactivity, wakefulness, distractibility or even irritability. Psychotic symptoms may also be present in very extreme manic episodes. During the depressive periods, affected individuals can exhibit sustained symptoms of depression, disinterest in most activities, fatigue, sleep disturbance, ranging anywhere from insomnia to hypersomnia, weight loss, weight gain, and sluggish or delayed mental reasoning. For more information, start with the What is Bipolar Disorder page.

Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD):

This term describes a condition in which the affected individual, whose hearing capabilities are otherwise functionally sound, will have difficulty understanding and processing information that is heard. It is believed that this occurs as the result of a communication breakdown somewhere between the ear and the parts of the brain that receive and interpret hearing stimuli. All of the possible causes of this disorder are still not known, but those that are known include: head trauma, lead poisoning, and possibly chronic ear infections. Because of the wide variety of possible causes of this disorder, and the strong likelihood of the existence of multiple contributing causes, each suspected case needs to be carefully evaluated on an individual basis. For more information, see Central Auditory Processing Disorder page.

Cerebral Palsy (CP):

This a very broad umbrella term that is used to describe a group of chronic, non-hereditary condition of varying severity that are believed to be the result of faulty development of, or damage to, the motor areas in the brain, which then causes a disruption in the brain's ability to control muscular movement and posture. The brain damage and/or developmental problems that cause CP can take place before, during, or after birth, and can affect muscular control and movement in one or more parts of the body. Depending on the parts of the brain that are involved, affected individuals may also experience speech control problems, but will often enjoy very normal mental capabilities. Some of the causes of cerebral palsy that have been identified through research, and which to some degree are considered to be preventable or treatable, are: jaundice, head injury, Rh blood factor incompatibility, and German measles (rubella). For more information, see Cerebral Palsy page.

Developmental Disability:

  • Facts
  • Developmental Milestones
  • Concerns
  • Monitoring and Screening for Disability
  • Causes and Risk Factors
  • Who is Affected
  • Living With a Developmental Disability

This term refers to a severe and chronic impairment, which can be attributed to one or more mental or physical impairments which will require specific and lifelong or extended care that is individually planned and coordinated, and which had an onset before age 22, and which is likely to continue indefinitely. The condition or conditions must create substantial functional limitations in three or more of the following areas of major life activity: 1) self care, 2) language skills, 3) learning, 4) personal mobility, 5) self-direction, 6) potential for independent living and 7) potential for economic self-sufficiency as an adult. For more information, see Developmental Disability page.

Down Syndrome:

A genetic disorder that is caused by the presence of an extra chromosome, which results in varying degrees of physical and mental abnormality. Physical characteristics of the syndrome include a flattened face, widely spaced and slanted eyes, comparatively smaller head size and lax joints. Although not present in all cases, mental retardation is typical. Those who are affected with the syndrome display a wide variety in mental, behavior and developmental capabilities, and will have a high propensity to suffer from common health problems, include a low resistance to infection, pronounced hearing loss, gastrointestinal problems, and heart defects. For more information, see Down Syndrome page.

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders:

This term refers to certain birth defects, and serious, life-long mental and emotional impairments that may be suffered by a child as the result of heavy alcohol consumption by its mother during pregnancy. Symptoms of mental and emotional deficits may include significant learning and behavioral disorders (including attention deficits and hyperactivity), poor social judgment, diminished cause-and-effect thinking, and impulsive behaviors. For more information, see Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders page.

Learning Disabilities (LD):

  1. What are Learning Disabilities?
  2. Causes
  3. Symptoms
  4. Who's at Risk?
  5. Diagnosis
  6. Treatments
  7. Is There a Cure?
  8. Other Facts

One or more impairments that a child may have in such areas as reading, mathematics and/or written expression skills, which interfere with the expected academic performance of the child in school, or in other daily activities that require those skills. Performance on standardized tests that is below that which would be expected for the child's age, schooling and level of intelligence are customarily used as preliminary diagnostic tools to identify areas where children are experiencing difficulties. Children with learning disabilities may be of average or above average intelligence, but experience difficulty in learning, differentiating, processing, storing and/or otherwise maximizing their use of information. Some children with LD will find it difficult to learn in a conventional classroom environment, and may need to attend LD classes for a period of time in order to help them achieve their potential in school. The presence of learning disabilities is not limited to children that are adopted, and will generally be just about as common in the general population as they are among children that are adopted. For more information, see the Learning Disabilities: What are Learning Disabilities? page.

Mental Retardation or Intellectual Disability:

  • What is intellectual disability?
  • What are some signs of intellectual disability?
  • What can I do if I think my child may have intellectual disability?

Impaired or incomplete mental development characterized by an IQ of 70 or below and characterized by significant functional limitations in at least two of the following skills: communication, self-care, home living, social/interpersonal skills, use of community resources, self-direction, functional academic skills, work, leisure, health, and safety. Onset usually occurs before age 18. More than 200 specific causes of mental retardation have been identified. For more information, see Mental Retardation page.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder:

  1. What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
  2. Causes
  3. Signs and Symptoms
  4. Who is at Risk?
  5. Diagnosis
  6. Treatments
  7. Living With
  8. Clinical Trials

A condition in which victims of overwhelming and uncontrollable experiences are subsequently psychologically affected by feelings of intense fear, loss of safety, loss of control, helplessness, and extreme vulnerability and in children the disorder involves disorganized or agitated behavior. For more information, see Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder page.

Reactive Attachment Disorder (or RAD):

  • Signs of RAD
  • Services that may be beneficial

This term is used to describe a condition that generally appears in children before age five, and is thought to result from a lack of consistent care and nurturing in early years. The disorder is characterized by the inability of a child or infant to establish age- appropriate social contact and relationships with others. Symptoms of the disorder may include a failure to thrive, developmental delays, a refusal to make eye contact, feeding difficulties, hyper-sensitivity to sound and/or touch, failure to initiate or respond to social interactions with others, self-stimulation, indiscriminate sociability and a an unusually high susceptibility to infections. For more information, see Reactive Attachment Disorder page.

Sexual Abuse:

Parenting a Child Who Has Been Sexually Abused

  1. Educating Yourself
  2. Establishing Family Guidelines for Safety and Privacy

Indicators and behaviors which suggest that a child may have been sexually abused, including: excessive masturbation, sexual interaction with peers, sexual aggression towards younger and more naive children, seductive behavior, and promiscuity. For more information, see Sexual Abuse page.

Social Disorders

Speech and Language Disorders:

  • How Do Speech and Language Develop
  • What Are the Milestones for Speech and Language Development
  • What is the Difference Between a Speech and Language Disorder
  • What Should I Do if My Child’s Speech or Language Appears to be Delayed
  • What Research is Being Conducted
  • What Are Voice, Speech, and Language
  • Your Child’s Hearing and Communicative Development Checklist

Impairments of speech or receptive language. Speech disorders usually involved difficulties with articulation which can generally be improved or resolved with speech therapy, usually requiring treatment over months or years. Language disorders, on the other hand, often result in substantial learning problems, involving difficulty with language comprehension, expression, word-finding and/or speech discrimination. Treatment by a language therapist generally leads to improvement in functional communication skills, although treatment cannot be generally expected to eradicate the problem. For more information, see Speech and Language Disorders page.

Tourette's Syndrome:

  1. What is Tourette’s Syndrome?
  2. Diagnosis
  3. Treatments
  4. Other Concerns and Conditions
  5. Risk Factors and Causes

A treatable neurological disorder that consists of involuntary "tic" movements or vocalizations that become more apparent under stress. Common manifestations include shoulder-shrugging, neck-jerking, facial twitches, coughing, grunting, throat clearing, sniffing, snorting, and barking. Children with Tourette's often have problems with hyperactivity as well. For more information, see Tourette's Syndrome: What is Tourette's Syndrome? page.


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