Sensitive Periods

Refers to a time when the child is especially receptive to certain kinds of environmental influences or experiences and the ideal time to provide or to avoid them. Though the term “critical and sensitive periods” is used in this report, there are relatively few critical periods (see critical periods above).

Subdomains

Based on a hierarchy, the subcategories that domains are divided into that contain various dimensions and indicators within them. For example, within the domain of functioning, subdomains include physical functioning, psychological functioning, and social functioning.

Well-being

Well-being is the sense of health and safety as appraised by the individual. Factors such as quality of life, fulfillment, and ability to contribute constructively to society and one’s own family are also important aspects of well-being. Aspects of well-being are incorporated in the domain of health termed “health potential” by the committee.