Alison Parker, PhD; Kathy Hotelling, PhD
Physical Rehabilitation & Chronic Conditions | Audience Level: Introductory
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an invisible disability that impacts 1 in 20 across the United States. A small percentage of youth are diagnosed with FASD; and FASD is often misdiagnosed as ADHD, ODD, or Autism. This results in inappropriate therapeutic techniques and medications that have limited, short, or no success in reducing symptoms. Even for those that receive a diagnosis, children and adolescents with FASD may experience a number of challenges in their behavioral, cognitive, and physical functioning. FASD is a whole-body diagnosis. Thus, awareness of FASD is important among professionals that work with youth in order to provide services and supports that address the complex needs and whole-body health of youth with FASD.