Understanding Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome in School

Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome (CDS) presents unique challenges for students that greatly impact academic performance, communication, social relationships, physical endurance and overall daily functioning. The incidence of Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome (CDS) is estimated to affect 5-8% of children and adolescents, with studies showing that 25-40% of children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) also exhibit symptoms of CDS. This means that school-based therapists have encountered CDS in one way or another and that understanding the syndrome itself and other diagnoses CDS can associated with critical for effective therapeutic intervention. In this course, participants will learn the history behind this relatively new disorder. All facets will be discussed including diagnosis, potential causes and risks, and comorbid diagnoses. By the end of this course,
participants will be able to identify signs and symptoms of CDS, understand CDS’s impact on school performance, and be equipped to implement interventions and strategies to improve function and better support students with CDS in school. Participants will use critical thinking skills to consider potential research areas for the
future.

This course is applicable to related service providers, K-12. 45 hours.