Covered in the Journal

The special series on the study of genetics which began in August continues this month in the Journal, focusing on the relationship between genes and increased risk for mental illnesses. The articles in this issue use twin studies, gene x environment interaction, and genome-wide association studies to examine attention-deficit / hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The cover illustrates the connections between a person’s genes, shown as blue and white chromosomes variably affecting the way his brain develops and functions, depending on epigenetic influences and gene expression, shown in the varying shades of the chromosomes and their grey lines connecting them to the brain. The resultant neural networks affect his resulting behaviors and actions, as depicted by the figures on the right. The rich colors and textures reflect the complexity of gene study, and the genetic, epigenetic, environmental, and behavioral uniqueness of each individual.
Cover art by Socorro Rivera; text by Mary K. Billingsley

The Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry is the flagship journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and is the leading journal focusing exclusively on today's psychiatric research and treatment of the child and adolescent. Published twelve times per year, each issue is committed to its mission of advancing the science of pediatric mental health and promoting the care of youth and their families.

The JAACAP editorial team is led by Dr. Andrés Martin, MD, MPH, Editor-in-Chief, and Dr. James J. Hudziak, MD, Associate Editor.

JAACAP’s 2009 impact factor of 4.983 secures its standing as the top-ranked journal in the categories of pediatrics and of child and adolescent mental health. JAACAP ranks first of 94 journals in pediatrics, and 14 of 117 journals in psychiatry.

The Journal's purpose is to advance research, clinical practice, and theory in child and adolescent psychiatry. It is interested in manuscripts from diverse viewpoints, including genetic, epidemiological, neurobiological, cognitive, behavioral, psychodynamic, social, cultural, and economic. Studies of diagnostic reliability and validity, psychotherapeutic and psychopharmacological treatment efficacy, and mental health services effectiveness are encouraged. The Journal also seeks to promote the well-being of children and families by publishing scholarly papers on such subjects as health policy, legislation, advocacy, culture and society, and service provision as they pertain to the mental health of children and families.