Rett Syndrome

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Rett Syndrome is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects the nervous system. It occurs almost exclusively in females, but in rare cases it affects males. It is actually the leading cause of severe impairment, mental retardation and developmental regression in girls. Rett syndrome is grouped as a pervasive developmental disorder (PDD) in which conditions are severe and pervasive, and that begins in early life and influences multiple areas of development. It is a developmental disorder, not a degenerative disorder and is characterized by problems in brain function that are responsible for cognitive and autonomic function. It affects a lot of functions including learning, speech, sensory sensations, movement, breathing, cardiac …show more content…

However, I feel that people need to realize how it affects the family around the child. Parents and siblings of the child have to make many sacrifices in order to accommodate him or her. Those who suffer from Rett Syndrome, in most cases, cannot perform daily tasks such as getting dressed, feeding oneself, and walking. Family members need to assist in all of these tasks. A child suffering from this disorder cannot be left alone. Therefore, someone from the family must always be there to watch him or her. Children with Rett Syndrome also grow irritable throughout the years. This can result in random fits in which the child makes loud grunting noises over a long period of time. This behavior can become taxing on a family over time. I have a lot of respect for those who must deal with these circumstances, while still showing love and care for that child. I believe that the most difficult aspect of this disorder is the way in which it develops. In other similar disorders, such as autism, it is known very early that there are genetic problems with the baby. However, in the case of Rett Syndrome, the child appears to develop normally. Parents are expecting their child to live a normal life until all of a sudden; the child’s development regresses. I see this as one of the most painful experiences a parent could ever …show more content…

John’s University Mission Attitudes can be incorporated into my research paper. One of our mission attitude deals with respect of a living individual and affirmation of the dignity of the human person. I find that this attitude fits perfectly into my paper. This is because people may not treat those suffering with disorders that are similar to Rett Syndrome as people. They may degrade them as if they aren’t important to this world. However, we must remember that everyone serves a purpose, and even though this group of people may not be able to do the things everyone else can, they are still dignified humans and should be treated

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