Developmental and behavioral disorders through the life span

David S Stein1, Nathan J Blum, William J Barbaresi

  • 1Division of Developmental Medicine, Children's Hospital Boston/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA. david.stein@childrens.harvard.edu

Pediatrics
|July 20, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Pediatricians can improve long-term outcomes for children with developmental and behavioral disorders, including intellectual disability and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, by understanding adult trajectories and implementing evidence-based practices.

Area of Science:

  • Developmental Pediatrics
  • Behavioral Health
  • Child Neurology

Background:

  • Developmental and behavioral disorders (DBDs) like intellectual disability (ID), learning disabilities (LD), and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are common, lifelong conditions.
  • Pediatricians require enhanced knowledge to address parental concerns regarding the long-term prognosis and potential for improved outcomes in these disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To equip clinicians with a comprehensive understanding of the adult outcomes associated with ID, LD, and ADHD.
  • To review current research on factors influencing vocational, social, and health trajectories in adults with these conditions.
  • To provide actionable practice recommendations for optimizing adult outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • State-of-the-art literature review.
  • Synthesis of current research on predictors and mediators of adult outcomes.
  • Development of evidence-based practice recommendations.

Main Results:

  • Detailed overview of adult outcomes across vocational, social, and health domains for individuals with ID, LD, and ADHD.
  • Identification of key factors that predict or influence long-term success and well-being.
  • Evidence-based strategies for clinical practice are presented.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding the long-term course of developmental and behavioral disorders is crucial for pediatric care.
  • Targeted interventions and support can significantly improve adult outcomes for individuals with ID, LD, and ADHD.
  • Clinicians are empowered with knowledge and recommendations to optimize patient trajectories.

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