MBD: Meanings and misconceptions

Abstract

Few terms have generated as much debate and apprehension among those who render clinical services to children as has "MBD". The childhood disabilities to which this term has been applied are undeniable. However, neither the implication of the term itself nor the meaning of the concept behind it are well recognized. In order to foster more rational discussion of the topic, the present paper attempts to clarify major misconceptions regarding MBD, and reviews essential features of the concept. Because their term generates false impressions of the disorders to which it is applied and because the concept it represents is itself unsatisfactory, the continued use of the term is objectionable. Nevertheless, the emphasis that the MBD conceptor, more accurately, the tradition underlying it - has placed on biological factors as relevant to the understanding of learning and behavioral problems is worth retaining. Separating the sense from the nonsense behind this concept will, hopefully, foster the development of more appropriate terminology and, in the process, improve communication among those who work with disabled children.

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