Developmental Neuropsychology

This fully updated edition of Developmental Neuropsychology: A Clinical Approach addresses key issues in child neuropsychology with a unique emphasis on evidence-informed clinical practice rather than research issues. Although research findings are presented, they are described with emphasis on what is relevant for assessment, treatment and management of paediatric conditions. The authors focus on a number of areas. First, the text examines the natural history of childhood central nervous system (CNS) insult, highlighting studies where children have been followed over time to determine the impact of injury on ongoing development. Second, processes of normal and abnormal cerebral and cognitive development are outlined and the concepts of brain plasticity and the impact of early CNS insult discussed. Third, using a number of common childhood CNS disorders as examples, the authors develop a model which describes the complex interaction among biological, psychosocial and cognitive factors in the brain-injured child. Finally, principles of evidence-based assessment, diagnosis and intervention are discussed.

The text will be of use on advanced undergraduate courses in developmental neuropsychology, postgraduate clinical training programmes and for professionals working with children in clinical psychology, clinical neuropsychology and educational and rehabilitation contexts. The text is also an important reference for those working in paediatric research.

Table of Contents

The authors

Acknowledgements

Part 1: Defining the neurodevelopmental dimension

Ch 1: Child neuropsychology: Theory and practice

Ch 2: The Developing Brain

Ch 3: Cognitive and social development

Ch 4: Recovery from early brain insult

Part 2: Childhood brain disorders

Ch 5: Genetic and metabolic brain disorders

Ch 6: Structural disorders of the brain

Ch 7: Perinatal brain insults

Ch 8: Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Ch 9: Childhood traumatic brain injury

Ch 10: Childhood epilepsy

Part 3: Child neuropsychological practice

Ch 11: Child neuropsychological practice: Assessment

Ch 12: Interventions for children with brain disorders