Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 8, 2025

Multimodal Protocol for Assessing Metacognition and Self-Regulation in Adults with Learning Difficulties
Published on: September 27, 2020
Description and classification of neurodevelopmental disabilities
Isabelle Gaudet1, Anne Gallagher1
1Neurodevelopment Optical Imaging Laboratory (LIONlab), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.
Insights
Accurate classification of neurodevelopmental disorders in children is vital for consistent communication and effective interventions. This review examines common classification systems, highlighting challenges and opportunities for clinical practice and research.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
- Medical Classification Systems
Background:
- Effective communication among clinicians, policymakers, and researchers relies on standardized classification systems.
- Classifying neurodevelopmental problems in children and adolescents is essential for understanding prevalence and guiding interventions.
- Developmental aspects present unique challenges in classifying these disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To enhance understanding of neurodevelopmental disability classification.
- To provide an overview of commonly used classification systems.
- To discuss the opportunities and challenges in classifying neurodevelopmental disorders.
Main Methods:
- Review of major classification systems, including the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) and the International Classification of Diseases (ICD).
- Analysis of the inherent opportunities and challenges in the classification process.
- Exploration of implications for clinical practice and research.
Main Results:
- Overview of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) and International Classification of Diseases (ICD) as primary classification tools.
- Identification of key challenges, including the integration of developmental aspects.
- Discussion of opportunities for improved classification accuracy and utility.
Conclusions:
- Standardized classification is crucial for effective communication and treatment of neurodevelopmental disorders.
- Addressing classification challenges can improve clinical practice and research outcomes.
- Understanding current systems and their limitations is key for future advancements.
Abstract:
Classification is a tool for communication so that when clinicians, policy-makers, or researchers refer to some features they talk about the same thing. The classification of neurodevelopmental problems in children and adolescents is crucial to better understand their prevalence and the intervention or treatment that should be provided. However, such classification might be challenging, especially when development aspects have to be taken into account. This chapter aims to provide a better understanding of the classification of neurodevelopmental disabilities. Thus, we provide an overview of the different classification systems that are the most commonly used, such as the well-known Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) and International Classification of Diseases (ICD). Moreover, we address opportunities and challenges inherent to the classification of neurodevelopmental disorders and the implications for clinical practice and research areas.
Related Concept Videos
Intellectual Disability
Learning Disabilities
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a...
Autism Spectrum Disorder
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings....
Introduction to Developmental Psychology
Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria and...

