Development of Eight-Year-Olds with Down Syndrome
Author Information
Author(s): Helma B. M. van Gameren-Oosterom, Minne Fekkes, Simone E. Buitendijk, Ashna D. Mohangoo, Jeanet Bruil, Jacobus P. Van Wouwe
Primary Institution: Department Child Health, Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), Leiden, The Netherlands
Hypothesis
What are the levels of development, problem behavior, and Health-Related Quality of Life in eight-year-old children with Down syndrome compared to normative data?
Conclusion
Eight-year-old children with Down syndrome have an average developmental delay of four years, more emotional and behavioral problems, and a less favorable Health-Related Quality of Life compared to children from the general population.
Supporting Evidence
- Children with Down syndrome had a mean developmental age of 3.9 years compared to a calendar age of 8.1 years.
- Boys with Down syndrome scored significantly lower than girls on developmental measures.
- Children with Down syndrome exhibited more emotional and behavioral problems compared to the general population.
- Health-Related Quality of Life scores were significantly lower in children with Down syndrome across multiple domains.
Takeaway
Kids with Down syndrome are about four years behind in development compared to other kids their age, and they have more problems with emotions and behavior.
Methodology
Developmental skills were assessed using the McCarthy Scales of Children's Ability, emotional and behavioral problems were measured with the Child Behavior Checklist, and Health-Related Quality of Life was assessed with the TNO-AZL Children's Quality of Life questionnaire.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the self-selection of participants, as those with more severe issues may not have participated.
Limitations
The study may have underestimated problem behavior due to non-response bias, as parents of children with more serious developmental issues may have opted out.
Participant Demographics
52% boys, 94.6% of Dutch origin, with 48% attending regular education.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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