Chapter 3,4
Wong, Hall & Justice
During the neonatal period, genes may become physically damaged or may
spontaneously mutate. If damaged genes are passed on to the child, the
result can be a genetic disorder. Alternatively, certain environmental facets,
such as exposure to X-ray or even highly polluted air, may produce a
malformation of genetic material. Due to advances in genetic screening,
genetic difficulties increasingly can be forecast, anticipated and planned for
before a child’s birth, enabling parents to take steps before the child is born
to reduce the severity of certain conditions.((
Discuss 2 different neurological disorders that can occur in development and
how they affect development. Refer to The National Institute of Neurological
Disorders and Stroke website to identify your disorders. Use additional
research to discuss this topic that was briefly introduced in the last Module:
Week(reading (Chapter 1). In addition, read Spirituality and the Aging Brain
(Newberg, 2011) and then discuss research suggesting the effects of
spiritual disciplines (prayer, meditation) on neurobiology.(
Neurobiology is basically the study of the brain and how it functions. There are many different
neurological disorders that can occur in development that also affect development. Neurological
disorders can be genetic or can be a result of one’s environment. Two different neurological
disorders are Parkinson’s disease and ADHD. I chose these two neurological disorders because
they both hit close to home. Unfortunately, Parkinson’s disease and ADHD are both incurable.
Parkinson’s is a progressive disease whereas people with ADHD learn how to adapt to their
illness.
My aunt has Parkinson’s disease and it has been heartbreaking to watch her go through the
struggles that come along with the disease. She has had many operations, but nothing seems to
work. She used to be one of the most active humans but now rarely leaves her house. She also
is required to be supervised 24/7. Parkinson’s disease falls under the category of motor system
disorders and involves uncontrollable body movements (NINDS, 2021). The cause of
Parkinson’s disease is unknown, although may be a combination of genetics and environmental
factors (NINDS, 2021). Four major symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include tremors, rigidity,
bradykinesia, and postural instability (NINDS, 2021).
In addition to Parkinson’s disease, ADHD also hits home for me as I was diagnosed with ADHD
in high school. For many years I was prescribed ADHD medication. I stopped taking the
medication about two years ago, because I am in recovery. I have been sober for over two years
and felt like I was relying on my ADHD medication daily. I have just found ways to cope with
my ADHD such as meditation and exercising. ADHD is a neurobehavioral disorder that affects
about 5% of American children (NINDS, 2021). ADHD is basically when individuals have a
hard time staying focused. Treatment for ADHD usually includes medication. It is imperative to
be careful because many people become addicted to these medications.
Spiritual disciplines such as prayer and meditation can have an impact on neurobiology.
According to Newberg, prayer and meditation require focus which activates the prefrontal cortex
and anterior cingulate cortex (2011). Research proves that meditation and prayer have positive
effects on the brain such as helping to increase memory, mood, and mental health (Newberg,
2011). In addition, meditation and prayer can decrease heart rate and blood pressure which can
lead to a state of relaxation for individuals. According to Newberg, meditation and prayer can
have an impact on hormonal function and the limbic system (2011). The limbic system directly
affects emotional states. That being said, an individual’s overall emotional state can increase due
to prayer and meditation. In the Bible, Mark 11:24 says, “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask
in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours” (Open Bible, 2021). This verse
solidifies the power of prayer and the impact it can have upon one’s life. Prayer and meditation
not only better one’s spiritual life, but also emotional, social, and physical.
References
100 Bible Verses about Prayer. What Does the Bible Say About Prayer? (n.d.).
https://www.openbible.info/topics/prayer.;
Newberg, A. B. (2011). Spirituality and the aging brain. Generations, 35(2), 83-91. Retrieved
from https://www-proquest-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/docview/906522803?accountid=12085
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2021).;Parkinson's Disease Information Page.
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Parkinsons-Disease-Information-Page.;
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2019).;Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity
Disorder Information Page. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity-
Disorder-Information-Page.;
Andria Corso
5:51amJul 8 at 5:51am
Manage Discussion Entry
Two neurological disorders that occur prenatally are Aicardi Syndrome and
Spina Bifida. Aicardi syndrome is a genetic disorder that affects the corpus
callosum development, which connects the brain’s right and left
hemispheres (U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2020). The disorder primarily
affects girls and is not passed from parent to child but shows up as an
altered gene that is linked to the X-chromosome (National Institute of
Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS, 2021a). Aicardi affects intellectual
and physical development, but the degree of disabilities varies with each
individual (NINDS, 2021a). For example, some individuals have abnormalities
in the spinal cord and are missing ribs or have small hands. Others have
issues with their optic nerve that can cause underdeveloped eyesight or
blindness (NINDS, 2021a; U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2020). There is
no cure for Aicardi syndrome, and the prognosis depends on the severity of
symptoms. Treatment depends upon which symptoms are most prevalent
but typically includes physical and occupational therapy to manage the
developmental concerns (NINDS, 2021a; U.S. National Library of Medicine,
2020).
The neural tube is a structure in the embryo from which the brain and spinal
cord develop (Wong et al., 2015). Spina Bifida is a neural tube defect
impacting this development, causing permanent nerve damage that affects
physical and intellectual development (NINDS, 2021b). For example,
difficulty with muscle functions or paralysis, or fluid around the brain that
can result in brain damage. There are varying degrees of spina bifida which
depend on the degree of spinal cord abnormality. Unfortunately, there is no
cure for spina bifida, and treatment depends on the amount of nerve
damage present; however, treatment often includes surgery at birth and
throughout life to manage the condition (NINDS, 2021b). Individuals with
spina bifida often wear braces or use crutches to help with their physical
disabilities. Many live a full life, while others who experience paralysis at
birth may have a less favorable outcome (NINDS, 2021b).
Spiritual practices such as prayer, meditation, and attending religious
services are linked to positive mental and physical health. Newberg (2011)
states that these spiritual practices are correlated with positive neurological
responses. For example, brain scans show that meditative practices affect
the prefrontal cortex and the limbic system and increase the production of
dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine (Newberg, 2011). These are our
positive-feeling hormones. Meditation also increases the parasympathetic
nervous system response, which is the body’s response when at rest
(Newberg, 2011). These physical outcomes all support a healthy brain and
body. Mindfulness (awareness of one’s feelings, thoughts, and behaviors,
and awareness of others) is another spiritual practice linked to decreased
depression and increased understanding and self-acceptance (Newberg,
2011). Finally, religious practices such as attending church promote social
connection, which increases cognitive and mental health in older adults
(Newberg, 2011). As a Christian, I know meditating on God’s word every day
is essential for my mental health. Reminding myself of His promises and that
he has plans for good, hope, and a future can help calm my nervous system
on the most difficult days (New International Version Bible, 2011, Jeremiah
29:11).
References:
Newberg, A. B. (2011). Spirituality and the aging brain.(The Journal of
American Society on Aging, 35(2). 83-91.
New International Version Bible (2011).
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/search=Jeremiah
%2029%3A11&version=NIV
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) (2021a).
Aicardi.https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Spina-Bifida-
Information-Page
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS (2021b).
Spina bifida. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Spina-Bifida-
Information-Page
Wong, D. W., Hall, K. R., Justice, C. A., & Hernandez, L. W. (2015).(Counseling
individuals through the lifespan. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications
Hello Andria,
Thank you so much for your post this week on neurobiology.
I have never heard of Aicardi Syndrome or Spina Bifida before reading your post and doing
more research on the diseases. It’s so sad that many of these neurological disorders do not have
cures.
I was surprised to learn that Aicardi syndrome mostly affects newborn girls. I was happy to
know that this disease is rare, therefore, does not affect many newborns. There is no cure for
Aicardi syndrome nor a standard treatment (NINDS, 2021).
Spina bifida is caused by the fetus's spine not closing properly and occurs during the first month
of pregnancy (NINDS, 2021). The spinal opening can be removed once the baby is born,
although the nerve damage is permanent. Spina bifida can cause physical impairments along
with learning disabilities (NINDS. 2021). Surgery, medication, and physiotherapy are three
treatments of spina bifida (NINDS, 2021).
Through prayer and meditation, I have noticed a positive effect on my own mental and physical
health. Last Saturday I was feeling very down then my grandmother asked if I wanted to go to
church with her. It amazed me how much better I felt after attending the service. I was surprised
to learn that that meditation and prayer have positive effects on the brain such as helping to
increase memory, mood, and mental health (Newberg, 2011). According to Newberg,
meditation and prayer can decrease heart rate and blood pressure leading an individual into a
state of relaxation (2011). In the Bible, Matthew 6:6 says, “But when you pray, go into your
room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in
secret will reward you” (Open Bible, 2021). This verse is a good indication of how much we, as
humans, can benefit from prayer. Our reward for prayer and a close connection with God is
eternal life.
References
100 Bible Verses about Prayer. What Does the Bible Say About Prayer? (n.d.).
https://www.openbible.info/topics/prayer.;
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.).;Aicardi Syndrome Information Page.
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Aicardi-Syndrome-Information-Page.;
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.).;Spina Bifida Information Page. National
Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/all-
disorders/spina-bifida-information-page.;
Week Two Discussion: Neurobiology
Disorders of the neurological system that occur during the developmental stage can range from
having a mild to a severe impact on a person’s life. Two such disorders are anencephaly and
spina bifida. Despite such defects potentially causing family tension and strife, Christians can
take comfort in knowing God created us all, sick or healthy, for a purpose that may be beyond
our understanding.;Psalm 139:14;states, “I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made”
(King James Bible,*1769/2017).
One such neurological disorder is anencephaly. It is caused by the neural tube failing to close in
the development of a fetus (NINDS, 2019). Wong et al. (2015) emphasizes that fetal
development is complex, and that it is a time of fast growth; further, the authors state that before
birth, the fetus develops “neurological capabilities” (p. 12). According to El Moussaoui et al.
(2021), this neurological defect takes place by twenty-six days after the time of conception. It
impacts a baby’s development severely because one who is born with it is “usually blind, deaf,
unconscious, and unable to feel pain" (NINDS, 2019). In short, it is not consistent with a
functional or sustainable life.
A second neurological disorder that begins during the developmental phase of a fetus’ life is
spina bifida. It occurs during the first month after conception (NINDS, 2020). This disorder is
not inherited; rather, it results from a “genetic mutation” (Galea et al., 2021). It can impact a
person developmentally by causing hydrocephalus and/or a protrusion of “meninges, spinal cord,
and blood vessels” along a patient’s spine (NINDS, 2020).
Many Christians are aware of the health benefits that can result from an optimistic view of life; it
can reduce stress and help people to face life’s hardships and tribulations, such as having a baby
who is born with a neurological disorder. Newberg (2011) espouses that spiritual practices like
mindfulness, meditation, and prayer positively impact a person’s life by helping to reduce
negative symptoms of high blood pressure, endocrine disorders, poor mental function, and
depressed moods. Prayer is an example of a spiritual practice that offers Christians the ability to
commune with God for healing. Indeed,;Psalm 103:3;emphasizes that God “heals all your
sickness” (King;James Bible, 1769/2017). People may not know in what form healing will arrive,
but there is comfort that comes from His promise.
References
El Moussaoui, K., El Bakka, S., Ghrab, I., Baidada, A., & Kharbach, A. (2021). Anencephaly:
Case report and literature review.;Journal of Gynecological Research and
Obstetrics,;7(1).;https://DOI:10.17352/jgro.000096
Galea, G.L., Maniou., E., & Edwards, T.J. (2021). Cell non-autonomy amplifies disruption of
neurulation by mosaic ; Vanl2* deletion in mice. ; Nature
Communications,* 12. ; https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-021-21372-4
King James Bible.; (1769/2017). King James Bible
Online. ; https://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).
(2019). ; Anencephaly.* http://ninds.nih.gov/disorders/all-disorders/spina-bifida-information-page
National Institute of Neurological Disorders. (2020). ; Spina
Bifida.* http://ninds.nih.gov/disorders/all-disorders/spina-bifida-information-page
Newberg, A.B. (2011). Generations: Spirituality and the aging brain. ; Journal of the American
Society on Aging,* 35(2), 83-91. ; https://www.jstor.org/stable/26555779
Wong, D.W., Hall, K.R., Justice, C.A., & Hernandez, L.W. (2015). ; Counseling Individuals
Through the Lifespan.* SAGE.
Hello Laura,
Thank you so much for your post this week on neurobiology!
According to Simmons et al., neuroscience is on its way to be the next wave of counseling
(2020).;;Neurocounseling has become so popular that now it is an area of expertise in the field of
counseling.;;It is important to note that brain function has a huge impact on one’s overall mental
health.;;Counselors who are knowledgeable about neuroscience also have a good understanding
of the nervous system.
I really like the Scriptures you incorporated into the week 1 module.
The two neurological disorders that I decided to talk about are ADHD and Parkinson’s disease,
because they hit close to home for me. My aunt has Parkinson’s disease, and I was diagnosed
with ADHD at a young age. In addition to ADHD and Parkinson’s disease, Spina bifida and
anencephaly are diseases that affect development and how the brain functions.
Spina bifida is a result of the fetus's spine not closing usually occurring during the first month of
pregnancy (NINDS, 2021). The spinal opening can be removed once the baby is born, although
the nerve damage is permanent. Spina bifida can cause physical impairments along with
learning disabilities (NINDS. 2021). Treatments of Spina bifida include surgery, medication,
and physiotherapy (NINDS, 2021).
Anencephaly occurs during fetal development and is the closure of the neural tube (NINDS,
2019). Unfortunately, there is no cure or certain treatment for anencephaly.
In the Bible, Exodus says, “You shall serve the;Lord;your God, and he will bless your bread and
your water, and I will take sickness away from among you” (Open Bible, 2021). It is imperative
that we pray for others who endure certain diseases as Jesus is a healer.
Hope you have a great weekend!
References
100 Bible Verses about Diseases. What Does the Bible Say About Diseases? (n.d.).
https://www.openbible.info/topics/diseases.;
Simmons, R., Lilley, S., & Kuhnley, A.K. (Eds). (2020).;Introduction to Counseling: Integration
of Faith, Professional Identity, and Clinical Practice. Dubuque, IA: Kendall Hunt.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.).;Anencephaly Information Page. National
Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-
Disorders/Anencephaly-Information-Page.;
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.).;Spina Bifida Information Page. National
Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/all-
disorders/spina-bifida-information-page.
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