Studies of executive function (EF) in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have reported mixed findings. Possible confounds include EF domain assessed and co-occurring neurodevelopmental diagnoses. EF task performance across multiple domains and everyday function of autistic adults (n = 110) was significantly different to age- and IQ-matched controls (n…

Literature exists to support the statement that children suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The diagnosis is not one that is commonly made in children and is generally considered occurring in returning war veterans or adult victims of trauma, including incest. The American Psychological Association (APA) Diagnostic and Statistical…

Notes that Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders fourth edition (DSM-IV) will become one of most frequently used reference documents in counseling profession. Describes progress being made in development of DSM-IV, scheduled for publication in 1994. Describes revision process and proposed organizational changes and new diagnostic…

This article outlines a provisional evidence-based approach to the assessment of pediatric bipolar disorder (PBD). Public attention to PBD and the rate of diagnosis have both increased substantially in the past decade. Accurate diagnosis is crucial to avoid harm due to mislabeling or unnecessary medication exposure. Because there are no proven…

Childhood depression has only been accepted as an appropriate clinical diagnosis since the 1960s. Evidence suggests that depressive symptoms in children are difficult to reverse and may persist into adolescence and adult life if unsuccessfully treated. Discusses etiology, symptoms, assessment, and treatment of childhood depression. (Author/NB)

Discusses ethical and practical concerns family therapists face when using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Third Edition Revised (DSM-III-R), including incompatibility of orientations, stigma associated with diagnosing, being asked to misrepresent diagnoses to third-party payers, and competency of some family therapists…

Reviews basic tenets of structural modeling in relation to issues in research and practice involving clinical assessment. Compares approach with more traditional psychometric approaches to validation of assessment instruments with children. Discusses arguments for and against inclusion of nonexperimental variables in causal studies aimed as…

Provides an overview of bipolar disorder, including a discussion of diagnostic indicators, etiological theories, and psychopharmacological treatment. Examines treatment implications for mental health counselors, including role in psychiatric liaison, individual counseling, marriage and family therapy, and vocational counseling. (Author/ABL)

Presents a case study which illustrates the difficulties surrounding the diagnosis and placement of autistic children. Demonstrates the importance of independent mediation and professional assessment and examines free appropriate public education in the context of Board of Education of the Hendrick Hudson Central School District vs. Rowley (1982).…

The author describes the etiology of retinitis pigmentosa, a visual dysfunction which results from progressive loss of the retinal photoreceptors. Sections address signs and symptoms, ancillary findings, heredity, clinical diagnosis, therapy, and research. (SBH)

Minimal brain dysfunction has been redefined by the American Psychological Association as attention deficit disorder (ADD) and subdivided into categories with and without hyperactivity. The revised 'Diagnostic and Statistical Manual' (DSM III) is now undergoing field trials. Journal Availability: C. V. Mosby Company, 11830 Westline Industrial…

Describes basic ideas behind deconstruction, form of analysis that accounts for unconscious elements in human constructions, especially linguistic constructions. Defines linguistic dualities on which Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III) is based, and analyzes these dualities in clinician-client relationship. Uses DSM-III…

This brochure provides information on Alzheimer's disease by examining who gets Alzheimer's disease and what to expect when someone has Alzheimer's disease. Abnormal brain tissue findings are discussed and three clinical features of Alzheimer's disease are listed: dementia; insidious onset of symptoms; and exclusion of all other specific causes of…

A group of physicians meet to discuss a case in which a middle-aged tennis player suffers from low back pain. The diagnosis, treatment and management of the case are discussed. The article is one in an occasional series. (JL)

Notes that substantial confusion exists regarding comparative diagnostic criteria and treatment implications for school phobia and separation anxiety. Literature survey demonstrates tendency of school personnel to put all students exhibiting these disorders into group of "school refusers." Sees treatment issues handled similarly despite evidence…