The Mystery of Risk

Book excerpt: The ill effects of a baby's exposure to drugs and alcohol while in the womb are demonstrated in this essential reference with cutting-edge information from the fields of medicine, neuroscience, and child psychology. These findings posit that many of the learning and behavior problems seen in children--from poor school performance to patterns of impulsivity often diagnosed as ADHD--are both treatable and preventable. The book first traces the history of fetal malformation back to the time of Aristotle, then presents a resounding call for integrated systems of care for high-risk children and their families. Methods for applying behavior management and treatment techniques are included for health care practitioners, social workers, early childhood intervention specialists, special education teachers, and parents, whether for use at home, at school, or in the clinical setting.