Genetic and Biological Factors

Genetic, biological, and environmental factors are known to a have significant impact on the development of all children, including children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, dyslexia, and other neurodevelopmental disorders. For children with specific disorders, there are multiple genetic, biological, and environmental factors that work together to create a spectrum of neurobiological symptoms. For many of these disorders there is not a single cause but rather a number of potential contributing factors that can exacerbate and elucidate symptoms. In the field of child development, you will work with a variety of children, including those who have developmental disorders. It is important to understand the various factors that contribute to their diagnosis. Before responding to this discussion, review the Week One Instructor Guidance page for additional information, resources, and support.

Choose one of the following disorders: ADHD, autism, dyslexia, Asperger's, or Down syndrome. Next, familiarize yourself with your chosen disorder by locating and reading at least one scholarly article about the disorder. If you need help locating an article, you can find some to use in the recommend resources of the Week Two Overview.

After completing research about your chosen disorder, address the following:

Explain how genetic, biological, and environmental factors influence the disorder (e.g., etiology) using one scholarly resource and the textbook to support your ideas.

Define the disorder including the typical behaviors and/or cognitive symptoms you might observe in a classroom or other professional setting (e.g., inattention, hyperactivity, poor eye contact).

Discuss one strategy that you would implement when working with a child with a neurodevelopmental disorder? Why did you choose this specific strategy?