Argues that there is a wealth of little known but rapidly growing evidence that contradicts the assumptions and claims of genetic determinism. Recent research showing the impacts of child maltreatment and environmental pollutants suggest interventions that might alleviate the problems sometimes attributed to genetic deficiencies. (SLD)

Described are the history of the study of language disabilities, briefly outlining the work of Samuel Orton, Judson Herrick, Adolph Meyer, and Paul Schilder; Lauretta Bender's development of the Bender Visual Motor Gestalt Test; and the basic principles of language disorders, including familial patterns, maturation lag, plasticity, and nonfixated…

Describes research on the causes, treatments, and diagnoses of autism. Describes a statewide outpatient program in North Carolina which includes elements of behavior modification, developmental assessment, problem-oriented goal setting, community support, and the training of both child and parent. (Author/DS)

Fragile X syndrome is the most common cause of mental retardation next to Down syndrome. The syndrome is more prevalent in males because they only have one X chromosome, where the gene for fragile X is carried, while women have two X chromosomes and the normal gene can compensate for the affected chromosome. Certain physical features are…

Investigates factors, including heredity and culture, contributing to exceptional Asian American academic achievement. Proposes the concept of relative functionalism, under which Asian Americans perceive and have experienced restrictions in upward mobility in occupations unrelated to education. Consequently, educational achievement assumes…