ABSTRACT
This introduction provides an overview of the genetic, physical and psychological basis of Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS). A general knowledge of these characteristics is essential, as the child with PWS needs to be understood within the context of the challenges placed on them by the syndrome. However, although many of the child’s behavioural problems and cognitive abilities are explicable within this framework, other influences such as social and family environment, as well as hereditary factors, have their part to play in producing an overall picture of the child. These also need to be taken into account. Hence, while each child with PWS has some of the characteristics of the syndrome, they still remain very much individuals.
