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Behavioral problems in children with Down syndrome

M S Bhatia1, Madhulika Kabra, Savita Sapra

  • 1Department of Psychiatry ,University College of Medical Sciences and Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi 110 095, India. manbhatia1@rediffmail.com

Indian Pediatrics
|August 9, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Children with Down syndrome exhibit significantly more behavioral problems than typically developing children. Parental attitudes also differ, with mothers showing varied indulgence and fathers demonstrating neglect across developmental spheres.

Area of Science:

  • Developmental Psychology
  • Pediatric Behavioral Health
  • Genetics and Neurodevelopment

Background:

  • Down syndrome is a genetic condition associated with developmental delays.
  • Behavioral issues are common in children with Down syndrome, impacting families.
  • Understanding parental attitudes is crucial for supporting these children.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare behavioral problems in children with Down syndrome versus a control group.
  • To assess parental attitudes towards children with Down syndrome.
  • To investigate the prevalence of psychiatric disorders in children with Down syndrome and their siblings.

Main Methods:

  • A study group of 40 children with Down syndrome and a control group of 40 children were recruited.
  • Behavioral problems were screened using the Behavior Screening Questionnaire (BSQ).
  • Parental attitudes were assessed using the Attitude Screening Questionnaire for mothers and fathers.

Main Results:

  • 55% of children with Down syndrome showed behavioral problems compared to 12.5% in the control group.
  • Behavioral issues in Down syndrome spanned feeding, socialization, toilet training, and sleep.
  • Mothers displayed indulgent to neglectful attitudes, while fathers showed neglect across all spheres.

Conclusions:

  • Children with Down syndrome have a higher prevalence of behavioral problems across multiple domains.
  • Parental attitudes towards children with Down syndrome vary significantly and require attention.
  • There is an elevated risk of psychiatric disorders in children with Down syndrome and their siblings.

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