Why development matters in neurodevelopmental disorders

Abstract

The importance of taking a truly developmental perspective to the study of neurodevelopmental disorders can be underappreciated. With illustrations from Williams, Down and Fragile X syndromes, this chapter makes a strong theoretical plea for a developmental approach from multiple levels. Section 1 argues that adult neuropsychological models are inappropriate for understanding neurodevelopmental disorders. Developmental change is then highlighted in the context of mapping: genotype to phenotype (Section 2), brain to cognition (Section 3), early basic-level underpinnings to cognitive-level outcomes (Section 4), and of evaluating environmental factors (Section 5). Practical tips for research into neurodevelopmental disorders are offered in Section 6, before general conclusions are drawn.