neurodevelopmental disorder, characterized by pronounced and persistent impairment of the child’s higher cognitive functions, including the ability to think logically, solve problems and independently comprehend new information. This disorder makes it difficult for the child to acquire basic academic skills such as reading, writing, and arithmetic, and limits social abilities that require thinking and conscious interaction with others. This retardation is caused by a defect or developmental delay in the areas of the brain responsible for higher cognitive functions, and can sometimes be accompanied by behavioral or emotional disturbances. Early diagnosis of this condition allows for the development of individualized educational and therapeutic programs aimed at developing the child’s abilities within his or her potential and improving his or her social and behavioral adaptation to the environment.