Neurodevelopmental disorders are characterized by:

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Prepare for the MCAT Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Neurodevelopmental disorders are indeed characterized by distress or disability that arises from abnormal development of the nervous system. These disorders typically manifest in early developmental stages, often affecting intellectual functioning, language, motor skills, and other cognitive or behavioral aspects. Examples include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Intellectual Disability. The core aspect is the disruption in typical neurological development, leading to various functional impairments throughout the individual’s life.

The other options provided focus on different aspects of psychological issues. Emotional issues stemming from environmental factors pertain more to external influences rather than developmental abnormalities. Acute psychopathology associated with trauma relates to the emergence of mental health issues in response to stressful or traumatic events, rather than developmental disorders. Finally, behavioral patterns from late-life onset focus on changes that occur later in life, which are not characteristic of neurodevelopmental disorders that are identified in childhood or adolescence.