HOMESTUDY: Courtney Ray, Ph.D., M.Div. Considerations of Environmental Stress on Pediatric Assessments, 2 CEs

Level of Activity: Intermediate It is well known that ACES are important considerations in pediatric evaluations due to their impact on neuropsychological performance and cognition. However, some prime contributors to these changes can easily be overlooked. Scientific research demonstrates the effects that environmental determinants have on pediatric physical health. Child mental and cognitive health is impacted as well. When conducting assessments, it is imperative that—just as we take stock of other factors in a child’s history and development—neuropsychologists inventory environmental exposures as well. Some of the pediatric populations most vulnerable to these exposures are children in BIPOC communities. Understanding the impact of environmental change not only provides an opportunity to improve our clinical understanding of individual patients, but gives us the chance to make positive changes that improve health equity and well-being for all. Neuropsychologists can play a pivotal role in preparing and responding to cognitive health threats from climate change. Objectives: 1. Develop a solid foundation of the current scientific research on climate and pediatric neuropsychological health 2. Learn to integrate information about environmental factors into the clinical assessment to help inform diagnoses and recommendations 3. Gain an understanding of how systemic marginalization of various people groups is related to environmental disenfranchisement which mediates determinants of brain health 4. Become equipped to participate in advocacy promoting neuropsychological health equity across the pediatric populations most vulnerable to environmental harm