Background, Aims, and Methods:

Developmental progression and psychological functioning in childhood are two of the most important criteria by which we gauge the well-being of our children. When a child fails to obtain one or more expected milestones within a circumscribed period of time, or shows deviant behavior within a particular psychological domain, important questions arise about the diagnostic and prognostic significance of these findings. The predominant aim of this study is to identify neurobiological and environmental factors that may be directly amenable to targeted intervention for individuals with genetic and neurodevelopmental disorders. A more detailed explanation of the overarching goal is as follows:

1. Through a comprehensive examination of individual cognitive and behavioral features, the home and school environments, and molecular genetic status (when applicable), of individuals with specific genetic, neuropsychiatric or neurodevelopmental disorders, we will more clearly delineate the role of particular environmental and biological factors in modulating cognitive and behavioral outcome in persons with these conditions.
   
   
2. Using structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging techniques, we will identify brain pathways associated with, and underlying, the neurobehavioral abnormalities occurring in these conditions. This study encompasses the investigation of the following genetic conditions: fragile X syndrome, Turner syndrome, Williams syndrome and velo-cardio-facial syndrome.

This study also includes the examination of the following neurodevelopmental disabilities: autism, pervasive developmental disorder, dyslexia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Using the combination of neuroimaging techniques and cognitive/behavioral assessments, we will test the hypothesis that variation in neuropsychiatric and neurodevelopmental presentation and outcome will be associated with particular features of brain morphology and function.