Additional Evidence of a Nonverbal Learning Disability in Survivors of Pediatric Brain Tumors

The purpose of the study was to further examine the utility of the nonverbal learning disability (NLD) model for characterizing deficits in pediatric brain tumor survivors. Data from measures of cognitive, academic, and social functioning were gathered from 101 survivors. Results revealed a pattern consistent with expectations based on the NLD model including stronger verbal than nonverbal intellectual and memory functioning, stronger reading than math skills, and weaknesses in visual-motor integration and processing speed. Moreover, findings support evidence of social problems in this sample. Further testing of the NLD model is needed to provide a comprehensive roadmap for assessment and intervention in pediatric cancer survivors.