We begin a new column whose goal is to provide our readership with an opportunity to share the excitement and exploration of the basic sciences relevant to child development and psychopathology. The neuroscientist and the clinician share a fascination with how to link the inner world of the child with emerging knowledge on how the brain develops its capacity for thought, feelings, and expression. Over the past two decades, our basic understanding of the biological and environmental factors that influence brain development has grown dramatically. The clinician no longer has to choose between nature and nurture, but can appreciate their interaction in the understanding of normal and abnormal development. In this new age, basic neuroscience techniques have begun to reveal the continuous interplay between the child's unfolding genetic program and the complexities of experience and activity-mediated changes in the cells of the brain.
Advances in genetics have begun to clarify the molecular basis of not only single-gene disorders, such as fragile X syndrome, but also more complex phenotypes such as dyslexia. New neuroimaging techniques show us the shapes and sizes of brain nuclei, the concentration of neurotransmitters, and the changes in neuronal activity within the brain while it is actually completing tasks. We are on the threshold of a new level of understanding of complex brain functions relevant to both the intricacies of normal function and the origins of disease and maladaptive behavior.
Whether or not we can use modern genetics and the neurosciences to realize Freud's dream of scientific psychology remains to be seen. Our intent is to share our enjoyment of discovery as we try to keep up with those neurons and the scientists who study them. The practice of child and adolescent psychiatry and related disciplines will be shaped by this new knowledge. If we can bridge the laboratory and the consulting room, all will benefit. We look forward to hearing from you about this new feature.
James F. Leckman, MD
Paul J. Lombroso, M.D.
Child Study Center
Yale University School of Medicine
New Haven, CT