What is considered a cardinal sign of developmental disorders?

What is considered a cardinal sign of developmental disorders?

• A. Increased physical activity compared to peers
• B. Delayed achievement of developmental milestones
• C. Advanced verbal skills for age
• D. Higher sensory sensitivity than average

Answer: (B)

The delayed achievement of developmental milestones is a key indicator of developmental disorders. Developmental milestones are specific skills or abilities that most children are expected to achieve within a certain age range, including areas such as motor skills, language, and social-emotional development. When a child consistently fails to meet these milestones, it can suggest underlying developmental concerns that warrant further evaluation. This delay can manifest in various forms, such as difficulty with speech, challenges in coordination, or slower social development, all of which may indicate that the child is experiencing atypical development. In contrast, increased physical activity compared to peers might be typical behavior in some children, particularly in younger ones who naturally exhibit varying levels of activity. Advanced verbal skills can also be a normal variance where some children excel in language but may not face other developmental challenges. Lastly, higher sensory sensitivity is not universally indicative of a developmental disorder since some children might process sensory input differently without it signifying a developmental problem. Therefore, the presence of developmental delays is a more universally recognized sign pointing to potential developmental disorders.

The delayed achievement of developmental milestones is a key indicator of developmental disorders. Developmental milestones are specific skills or abilities that most children are expected to achieve within a certain age range, including areas such as motor skills, language, and social-emotional development. When a child consistently fails to meet these milestones, it can suggest underlying developmental concerns that warrant further evaluation. This delay can manifest in various forms, such as difficulty with speech, challenges in coordination, or slower social development, all of which may indicate that the child is experiencing atypical development.

In contrast, increased physical activity compared to peers might be typical behavior in some children, particularly in younger ones who naturally exhibit varying levels of activity. Advanced verbal skills can also be a normal variance where some children excel in language but may not face other developmental challenges. Lastly, higher sensory sensitivity is not universally indicative of a developmental disorder since some children might process sensory input differently without it signifying a developmental problem. Therefore, the presence of developmental delays is a more universally recognized sign pointing to potential developmental disorders.