Wednesday, October 24 
8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (ticket) - SOLD OUT 
James C. Harris, M.D., Chair 

The last decade has brought with it considerable advances in understanding of psychosocial, genetic, neurobiological, and behavioral issues related to the diagnosis and treatment of intellectual and other developmental disabilities. Such advances are pertinent not only to those with severe developmental disorders, but also to a broader range of children and adolescents by bringing a greater appreciation of the developmental perspective to child and adolescent psychiatry. Thus, the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) that was initially introduced in educational planning for children with severe developmental disorders is being applied to a wide variety of individuals with milder learning problems, attention deficit disorder, and autistic spectrum disorders. Linked to recognition of the importance of educational programming is the reduction in social stigma as it becomes clearer that children who are provided with supports can self-initiate and master tasks previously considered too difficult for them. Moreover, advances in genetics have clarified genetic mechanisms linked to many intellectual disability syndromes. Studies of these neurogenetic syndromes are increasingly eliciting the neurobiology of behavioral phenotypes in specific syndromes. A new manual is being prepared to adapt DSMIV-TR diagnostic criteria to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and new comprehensive treatment models have evolved that include psychosocial, behavioral, and pharmacological interventions. This Institute discusses each of these advances. 

Concepts, Definition, and Classification of Intellectual Disability 
David L. Coulter, M.D. 

Medical Assessment of the Child with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities 
Sandra L. Friedman, M.D. 

Neurobiology of Behavioral Phenotypes and Their Relevance for Psychiatric Disorders 
James C. Harris, M.D. 

The Differential Diagnosis of Psychiatric Disorders in Children with Intellectual Disability 
L. Jarret Barnhill, M.D. 

A Comprehensive Approach to Pharmacological Treatment in Intellectual Disability 
Bryan H. King, M.D. 

Forensic Psychiatry and Legal Issues in Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities 
Ludwik S. Szymanski, M.D. 

Sponsored by the AACAP Autism and Intellectual Disability Committee

Institute Quick Links