Got testing results and diagnoses. Hold your hats.

[buddy]

ummmm, something to consider..... this is OFTEN missed...

Non-Verbal Learning Disability (NLD or NonVerbal Learning Disorder (NVLD)): Your Child: University of Michigan Health System

Nonverbal learning disorder - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A nonverbal learning disorder or nonverbal learning disability (NLD or NonVerbal Learning Disorder (NVLD)) is a condition characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal and lower motor, visuo-spatial, and social skills on an IQ test. Some proponents of the category believe that this discrepancy is attributable to dysfunction in the right cerebral hemisphere. NLD involves deficits in perception, coordination, socialisation, non-verbal problem-solving and understanding of humour, along with well-developed rote memory. As most people with Asperger syndrome (AS) fit the criteria for NLD, a diagnosis of AS is often preferred. In this instance, some researchers assert that an AS diagnosis is more clinically useful than an NLD diagnosis, and argue that NLD would be an example of excessive diagnostic splitting. However, NLD can also occur with other disorders. As with Asperger syndrome, NLD exists on a spectrum, and those affected can experience it in a range of ways. Those with an NLD diagnosis can experience some or all of the symptoms, and to varying degrees. Ongoing debate surrounds the relationship between Asperger syndrome and NLD, as research on the condition is ongoing and procedures can differ from AS research.

What is non-verbal learning disability (NLD or NonVerbal Learning Disorder (NVLD))?
Kids with NLD are very verbal, and may not have academic problems until they get into the upper grades in school. Often their biggest problem is with social skills.
NLD is very like Asperger Syndrome. It may be that the diagnoses of Asperger syndrome (AS) and NLD simply “provide different perspectives on a heterogeneous, yet overlapping, group of individuals sharing at least some common aspects [1].” AS and NLD are generally thought to describe pretty much the same kind of disorder, but to differ in severity—with AS describing more severe symptoms.

• For further discussion of Asperger syndrome vs. nonverbal learning disability, read the article Asperger’s Disorder and Non Verbal Learning Disabilities: How are These Two Disorders Related to Each Other?

What are the signs of NLD?

• Great vocabulary and verbal expression
• Excellent memory skills
• Attention to detail, but misses the big picture
• Trouble understanding reading
• Difficulty with math, especially word problems
• Poor abstract reasoning
• Physically awkward; poor coordination
• Messy and laborious handwriting
• Concrete thinking; taking things very literally
• Trouble with nonverbal communication, like body language, facial expression and tone of voice
• Poor social skills; difficulty making and keeping friends
• Fear of new situations
• Trouble adjusting to changes
• May be very naïve and lack common sense
• Anxiety, depression, low self-esteem
• May withdraw, becoming agoraphobic (abnormal fear of open spaces)

 

[InsaneCdn]

Just tossing this "out there" in case...
difficult child is 13. He's been fighting an uphill battle for a LONG time.

What are the chances that there is secondary depression going on? That he's kind of "given up" on life? It doesn't have to be extreme, to have a significant impact. With so many other layers, something like this can go undetected.

 

[Otto von Bismark]

Just tossing this "out there" in case...
difficult child is 13. He's been fighting an uphill battle for a LONG time.

What are the chances that there is secondary depression going on? That he's kind of "given up" on life? It doesn't have to be extreme, to have a significant impact. With so many other layers, something like this can go undetected.

I have thought about it. Would that show up in the extensive testing they just did? They said no evidence of depression in the testing.

 

[buddy]

Just tossing this "out there" in case...
difficult child is 13. He's been fighting an uphill battle for a LONG time.

What are the chances that there is secondary depression going on? That he's kind of "given up" on life? It doesn't have to be extreme, to have a significant impact. With so many other layers, something like this can go undetected.

this has for sure happened in my son's case. I think with kids who have a hard time expressing and rating their feelings it is hard to get this on a standardized test. We found out from statements he randomly makes and now he talks to the psychiatric (not my favorite guy but he does do some things ok) and the school counselor when he brings up things. He has said things directly like, well I am just going to give up, it is too hard. Dont they know I am trying my best? Do I have to die to get rid of this? It is your fault mom, you didn't get the doctor to fix my brain, lots of questions about autism and brain injury and if he can ever get people to stop calling him that if he promises to be "good" etc. Really feeling down about things at times. Not really seriously depressed but has some issues in that way. So we are addressing it along with the self esteem issues that go hand in hand.
It is worth paying attention to and if you are concerned, to heck with the diagnosis or not, just tell them you are very concerned and want it addressed.

 

[InsaneCdn]

I have thought about it. Would that show up in the extensive testing they just did? They said no evidence of depression in the testing.

Possibly because they don't recognize that depression in boys (and men) can show up VERY differently than the so-called "classical" symptoms. However, what he is showing isn't classical male depression, either. If you have enough layers going on, it becomes very difficult to test for everything. Sometimes, you have to start dealing with what is known, and take it from there.

Did THEY give you any explanation for the "following you around like a puppy dog" behavior? and the "just sit there" behavior? If it doesn't have a logical explanation, then you can push back... because you need an answer for that one.