Abstract |
Behavioral teratology is the study of the functional consequences of exposure to toxicants during the period of nervous system development. These agents include therapeutic drugs, food additives, hormones, alcohol, drugs of abuse, heavy metals, pesticides, solvents, and x-irradiation. 'Birth defects of the mind' (Kolata, 1978) have become a matter of public concern as more becomes known about adverse effects of chemicals in our environment (Spyker, 1975) as well as adverse effects of drugs to which pregnant women and infants are exposed (Hutchings, 1978; Barlow, 1982). |