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This article explores the conflicting views as to electroencephalography's (EEG) diagnostic value in minimal brain dysfunction (MBD). Some of the values and limitations of EEG findings for diagnosis, prognosis, and follow-up study of MBD individuals are described. The issue of EEG unreliability in the assessment of the presence of behavior disorders and MBD has been stressed correctly by several authors. Many EEGs fail to include sleep recording despite the unquestioned existence of abnormalities whose appearance is confined almost entirely to one or two stages of somnolence.

The Influences of Methylphenidate on Heart Rate and Behavioral Measures of Attention in Hyperactive Children. CHILD DEVELOPMENT, 1975, 46, 727-733. Reaction-time performance and heart-rate responses associated with attention were used to assess the hyperactive child's attentional deficit and his response to methylphenidate. Attentional deficits shown by long response latencies were reflected in heart-rate responses theoretically incompatible with sustained attention. Subjects exhibiting the greatest attentional deficit displayed the most favorable response to methylphenidate in both reaction-time performance and physiological measures. However, subjects who showed the greatest improvement in social behavior were those who showed the least improvement in reaction-time performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The literature related to one form of septal dysfunction - hyper-reactivity - is reviewed. The increase in reactivity following septal damage is considered in terms of its reliability and the many factors which influence its attenuation and release. Research discussed includes the topics of anatomical locus of septal damage, species and strain investigated, pre- and post-operative handling, neurochemical factors, and the relationship of hyper-reactivity to other septal dysfunctions and other anatomical structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigates whether unilateral dominance is not related to neuropsychological integrity in children. Absence of strong linear predictive relationships between LA and SLP; Limited significance of LA and SLP for human behavior.