Is genetic testing ready for clinical practice? It depends on which test we’re talking about. In this interview John Nurnberger details the tests to pay attention to on a genetic panel and describes how to use whole exome sequencing (WES) to identify genetic causes of autism and intellectual disability.

Multiple programs claim to improve executive function and cognitive processing. Although the evidence for the efficacy of reading programs is generally scant, we discuss to how to talk with families in a manner that is clear and factual yet allows for collaboration if families choose to pursue these options.

The link between ADHD and antisocial behavior leading to arrests and incarcerations is often not clear: is the ADHD causing the behaviors or other related factors? We examine the results of a population-based study to give us insight into whether treating ADHD with stimulant medication has an effect on the risk of criminal behavior.

Nonverbal learning disability (NLD) can present a diagnostic and treatment conundrum to the child psychiatrist, with children presenting with a number of symptoms and deficits that are common with other conditions.

Every day in the United States, about 650 babies are born that have been exposed to illicit drugs in the prenatal period (Keegan K et al, J Addict Dis 2010;29(2):175–191). The number would be even larger if we include women who continue to smoke cigarettes, drink alcohol, and abuse prescription drugs during pregnancy.

Behavioral pediatrician Dr. Erik von Hahn explains how schools evaluate and treat kids for learning disabilities and how child psychiatrists can help in this process.

The FDA recently approved marketing for a new post-natal blood test that will screen for a number of chromosomal abnormalities that are related to intellectual disabilities and developmental delays.

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Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a family of neurodevelopmental disorders made up of autism, Asperger’s syndrome, and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified. While the pathophysiology behind these disorders remains largely unknown, each shares a specific constellation of symptoms including impaired communication, diminished social skills, and unusual behaviors or interests.

Any psychiatrist will tell you that comorbidity in mental health is the norm. Comorbidity between autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD) is no exception.