The Child, the Parent, and the Goal

Abstract

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a childhood condition in which there is a motor disability (palsy) caused by a static, nonprogressive lesion in the brain (cerebral). The causative event has to occur in early childhood, usually defined as less than 2 years of age. Children with CP have a condition that is stable and nonprogressive; therefore, they are in most ways normal children with special needs. Understanding the medical and anatomic problems in individuals with CP is important; however, always keeping in mind the greater long-term goal, which is similar to that for all normal children, is important as well. The goal for these children, their families, medical care, education, and society at large is for them to grow and develop to their maximum capabilities so that they may succeed as contributing members of society. This goal is especially important to keep in perspective during the more anatomically detailed concerns discussed in the remainder of this text.