Three Steps Toward Improving the Measurement of Behavior in Behavioral Phenotype Research

As the numbers of syndrome-specific behavioral articles continue to grow, it seems a good time to pause and take stock of patterns that are emerging across these many studies. This article takes note of these patterns and summarizes the authors' reading of the behavioral phenotype waters. The authors propose that there are (at least) three overarching themes that relate to individual differences within syndromes. These include the roles of (1) development across the lifespan, (2) gender differences, and (3) other subject and environmental factors. The authors end with a cautionary note about measures and the need to supplement (alongside weaknesses and psychiatric vulnerabilities) the strengths and positive affect and attributes of individuals who have genetic syndromes.