Uploaded December 2021 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago

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We're looking at something called non-verbal learning disorder or NVLD (also abbreviated as NLD), and the questions regarding it in the research field. It overlaps significantly with ASD and ADHD, and some argue it's just autism while others say it's a distinct disorder.

References:
Broitman, J., & Davis, J. (n.d.). Frequently Asked Questions. The NVLD Project | Non-Verbal Learning Disability. Retrieved November 5, 2021, from nvld.org/faqs

Burkhardt, S. (2019, April 17). NVLD: To Be or Not to Be Real NVLD. Children’s Resource Group - A Multi-Specialty Behavioral Health Practice. childrensresourcegroup.com/nvld-to-be-or-not-to-be-real-nvld

Cervino, M., Castrillo, P., & Guijarro, R. (2017). Non-verbal learning disorder: Neuropsychological profile and neural correlates. A structural magnetic resonance imaging study. European Psychiatry, 41(S1), S344–S344. doi.org/10.1016/j.eurpsy.2017.02.310

Fine, J. G., Musielak, K. A., & Semrud-Clikeman, M. (2014). Smaller splenium in children with nonverbal learning disability compared to controls, high-functioning autism and ADHD. Child Neuropsychology, 20(6), 641–661. doi.org/10.1080/09297049.2013.854763

Fine, J., Semrud-Clikeman, M., Bledsoe, JesseC., & Musielak, KaylaA. (2013). A critical review of the literature on NLD as a developmental disorder. Child Neuropsychology, 19(2), 190–223. doi.org/10.1080/09297049.2011.648923

Frye, D., & Karanzalis, L. (2021, January 6). What Is Nonverbal Learning Disorder? ADDitude. additudemag.com/what-is-nonverbal-learning-disorder-symptoms-and-diagnosis

Meyer, B. (2020, February 26). NVLD: What is it and Why is it Not in the DSM? The NVLD Project | Non-Verbal Learning Disability. nvld.org/nvld-what-is-it-why-not-in-dsm

Rosenblum, S., Piran, M., Meyer, S., & Sachs, D. (2018). Normative or Heavy Clouds? Early Indicators of Nonverbal Learning Disability Based on Mothers’ Reports. Open Journal of Occupational Therapy, 6(2). doi.org/10.15453/2168-6408.1395

Semrud-Clikeman, M., Fine, J., Bledsoe, J., & Zhu, DavidC. (2013). Magnetic resonance imaging volumetric findings in children with Asperger syndrome, nonverbal learning disability, or healthy controls. Journal of Clinical & Experimental Neuropsychology, 35(5), 540–550. doi.org/10.1080/13803395.2013.795528

Semrud-Clikeman, M., Fine, J. G., & Bledsoe, J. (2016). Social functioning using direct and indirect measures with children with High Functioning Autism, nonverbal learning disability, and typically developing children. Child Neuropsychology, 22(3), 318–335. doi.org/10.1080/09297049.2014.994487

Semrud-Clikeman, M., Walkowiak, J., Wilkinson, A., & Christopher, G. (2010). Neuropsychological Differences Among Children With Asperger Syndrome, Nonverbal Learning Disabilities, Attention Deficit Disorder, and Controls. Developmental Neuropsychology, 35(5), 582–600. doi.org/10.1080/87565641.2010.494747

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