Neurodevelopmental issues in the assessment and treatment of deficits in attention, cognition, and learning during adolescence.

Abstract

Adolescent growth and development occur over multiple domains of function and represent the neurodevelopment process of maturation. Adolescents who have experienced normal development will transition through this complex process and will achieve mastery and integration of those domains by late adolescence (ages 17-21 years). Those youth who do not experience normal development can experience deficits in one or all of the domains of function. These deficits are better understood by examining the neurodevelopmental aspects of maturation. Identifying the interactive effects of strengths and weaknesses in each domain of function will give the clinician access to methods of refining and individualizing treatment.