HDFS 48400 - Genetic And Physiological Factors Underlying Developmental Disabilities

Credit Hours: 3.00. This course will explore the genetic and physiological factors that contribute to the expression of some common developmental disabilities. The course will begin with a 2-week unit that explores the process by which genes influence human development, including health and behavior. A second 2-week unit will cover pre-natal development, including: sensitive periods of development, teratogenic effects, genetic counseling, prenatal diagnostic tests, difficult births and the pre-term and small-for-date baby. The third unit (2-3 weeks) will focus on the physiology of the developing human nervous system during the prenatal period, infancy and early childhood. Development of the sensory systems will be given special attention. Approximately 9-10 weeks will be devoted to discussing the etiology, diagnosis (including differential diagnoses), treatment and prognosis of some of the major developmental disabilities. Discussion will include, but not be limited to: autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit disorders, delayed development, cerebral palsy, hearing loss, impaired vision, common Mendelian genetic disorders, neuromuscular disorders and various types of mental retardation. Typically offered Summer Fall Spring.

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