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childhood disintegrative disorder

in DSM–IV–TR, a pervasive developmental disorder characterized by a significant loss of two or more of the following: previously acquired language skills, social skills or adaptive behavior, bowel or bladder control, play, or motor skills. This regression in functioning follows a period of normal development and occurs between the ages of 2 and 10. Impairments in social interaction and communication are also evident. In DSM–5, childhood disintegrative disorder is subsumed into autism spectrum disorder and is no longer considered a distinct entity.

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Psychology term of the day

January 26th 2025

chemotherapy

chemotherapy

n. the use of chemical agents to treat diseases, particularly cancer, in which case it is contrasted with radiation therapy. —chemotherapeutic adj. —chemotherapist n.