FAS = Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Most severe of the disorders, but only clinical diagnosis given by doctors. Effects include facial characteristics, central nervous system or neurobehavioral disorders, small head/body
FAE = Fetal Alcohol Effects
FAE includes behavior disorders, attention deficits but not necessarily the physical features
ARBD = Alcohol Related Birth Defects
May include heart defects, sight/hearing problems, joint anomalies, kidney problems
ARND = Alcohol Related Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Disorders include attention deficits, behavior disorders, and other neurological problems
FASD = Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders - Name for the spectrum of disorders which encompasses all of the above.
Born on the Bottle, Drunk for Life - an excellent series on the lasting effects of alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
Delayed Development
While individuals with FASD may be physically maturing, their emotional and social development lags far behind. An 18 year old individual with FASD may have a much lower "developmental age". If age-appropriate behavior is expected, problems can occur when it cannot be met. Gradual catch-up may occur in adulthood.Skill Expected at 18 Developmental Age Equivalent
Expressive Language ----------------------> 20 yrs.
Comprehension ------> 6 yrs.
Money, Time Concepts --------> 8 yrs
Emotional Maturity ------> 6 yrs.
Physical Maturity ---------------------> 18 yrs.
Reading Ability --------------------> 16 yrs.
Social Skills -------> 7 yrs.
Living Skills -----------> 11 yrs.
D. Malbin (1994)
