The neuropsychological basis of childhood psychopathology

A clear link exists between neurological dysfunction and psychopathology in children, as evidenced by research on the sequelae of developmental childhood brain impairment, the neuropsychological investigation of children with psychiatric disorders, and neuroimaging research. Understanding the neuropsychological basis of a disorder helps teachers, parents, and children better understand the etiology of the disorder and guide classroom interventions. Additionally, identifying morphological markers of childhood mental disorders may lead to earlier and more successful interventions. This article reviews the neuropsychological relationships between brain impairment and childhood mental disorders as well as investigates the biological basis for some common childhood disorders seen in the schools. Emphasis is placed upon the underlying neurological and neuropsychological deficits that constitute disorders, and implications for practitioners are discussed.