The Science and Pseudoscience of Children's Mental Health: Cutting Edge Research and Treatment (Childhood in America)

This book explains how studies in brain development and epigenetics―the inextricable interplay of genes and environments―have led to breakthroughs in the understanding of childrens psychological disturbances and serve to discredit the scientifically unsupported chemical imbalance theory of mental illness.Intended for mental health practitioners concerned parents and child advocates alike this book presents a powerful new paradigm for understanding the causes of childrens psychological disturbances―and as a result the proper treatment of these symptoms. Based in cutting-edge research on the developing brain and epigenetics this important volume serves to inform readers about the latest scientific conclusions and clinical practices that need to supplant pervasive and often dangerous drug prescriptions to millions of children.Sharna Olfman PhD and contributors including leading researchers clinicians and childhood advocates present their research findings and explain the implications for treatment of a range of symptoms including autism spectrum disorders attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) concussion syndromes and mood disorders. The book definitively lays to rest the chemical imbalance theory of mental illness a theory that has been roundly discredited by the scientific community but kept alive by the pharmaceutical industry. Chapters focus on the real science of epigenetics and the sensitivity of the developing brain to environmental influences such as trauma and chemical toxins―legitimate research findings that are largely ignored by mental health practitioners and rarely influence practice.Presents a new paradigm for understanding the cause and treatment of childrens psychological disturbances based in cutting edge research on the developing brain and epigeneticsAddresses the latest groundbreaking research on the treatment of concussion syndromes as well as on the cause and treatment of autism spectrum disordersOffers strategies that promote healthy brain development and protect against childhood psychological disturbancesExplains how 21st-century parents excessive use of cell phones and other mobile devices undermines the quality of attachment and places children at risk for compromised brain development and psychological disturbance