Dr. Marsha Vasserman

My research has focused mainly on the neurocognitive correlates of a range of neurodevelopmental disorders that affect brain development and cognition, including ADHD, language disorders, autism, learning disorders and neurological illness. In addition to interest in the impact that these various disorders have on children's cognitive and functional outcomes, I have also focused on assessing the utility of some of the measures that are commonly used in these diverse pediatric groups. As a result, I have found that measures which are useful for one group (e.g., mild TBI), may not, in fact, be effective in a group of children with ADHD or epilepsy. My more recent interests have revolved in assessing the impact of neuropsychology on disease management in other chronic illnesses. For example, children with diabetes are expected to manage complex medical tasks. Yet, they as a group are also more vulnerable to impairment in cognitive functions which make effective planning and decision making more challenging. My goals for some current projects include identifying whether providing early screenings for these children may improve their overall medical management, as well as their medical and social outcomes.