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Book Chapter

A brief history of Down syndrome, key moments and reflections

Details

Citation

Watchman K, Brown R, Kyrkou M & Hodapp R (2020) A brief history of Down syndrome, key moments and reflections. In: Burack JA, Edgin JO & Abbeduto L (eds.) The Oxford Handbook of Down Syndrome and Development. Oxford: Oxford University Press. https://doi.org/10.1093/oxfordhb/9780190645441.013.1

Abstract
The chapter traces some key historical developments in the study of individuals with Down syndrome. After describing general issues of classification in intellectual disabilities, we describe Langdon Down¡¯s identification of the syndrome in the 1860s; the movement to name the syndrome after Down; the identification of trisomy 21 as the syndrome¡¯s cause; and the beginnings of sustained research attention to the syndrome. We end with a glimpse into the future, discussing issues of longer life spans, more integrated lives, and the roles of families, organizations, and self-advocates. Working together, researchers, practitioners, and individuals and their families can all continue to advance the lives of persons with Down syndrome.

Keywords
Down Syndrome; history; research studies; practical application; developmental challenges; parents and families

StatusPublished
Publication date31/12/2020
Publication date online31/12/2022
PublisherOxford University Press
Place of publicationOxford
ISBN978-0-19-064544-1
eISBN9780190645465

People (1)

Professor Karen Watchman

Professor Karen Watchman

Professor, Health Sciences Âé¶¹´«Ã½AV