Similar to fetal alcohol syndrome, this diagnosis is given when a child’s biological mother used substances including alcohol or illegal drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, or methamphetamines. Tobacco also impacts fetal development. Effect on the brain can range from very mild to severe. Even limited exposure can cause potential problems.
Children who have been exposed to substances prenatally may show deficits in cognitive functioning and also have symptoms consistent with attention-deficit, learning and language problems, mood disturbance, and challenges surrounding behavior. These children may be more prone to temper tantrums, aggression, violence, emotional outbursts, poor impulse control, and have difficulties using appropriate judgment. They may be either overly impulsive (e.g., acting without thinking about the consequences of their misbehaviors), lack initiation or motivation to carryout daily life tasks (e.g., poor hygiene), or participate adequately in school. Social problems are very often present as well. These children sometimes lack understanding of appropriate social boundaries and are often described by others as “socially immature.” In general, these children very often struggle applying their knowledge to new situation or lack understanding of what to do or how to behave in specific situations. Again, the above mentioned symptoms and presentations can vary from child to child, and those with mild exposure may only present with some of these challenges. Whereas other children may be impacted more severely and show more severe symptoms than are mentioned here.
Interventions (e.g., therapy) often help to improve functioning and can teach the child effective coping strategies and promote learning. Understanding the child’s neurocognitive profile can be useful for using their strengths to compensate for their weaknesses. Behavioral approaches usually work best.