A comparison study of psychiatric and behavior disorders and cognitive ability among homeless and housed children

Area of Science:

• Child Psychology
• Developmental Neuroscience
• Social Determinants of Health

Background:

• Homelessness is a significant social determinant impacting child development.
• Understanding the relationship between homelessness, cognitive ability, and behavioral disorders is crucial for intervention.
• Previous research indicates potential disparities in developmental outcomes for homeless children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between homelessness and child psychiatric/behavior disorders.
• To examine the relationship between homelessness and child cognitive ability.
• To identify factors, including maternal characteristics and child nonverbal scores, associated with child outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study design involving 157 homeless children and 61 housed children and their mothers.
• Structured diagnostic interviews were used to diagnose child psychiatric and behavior disorders.
• The Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test assessed child cognitive ability.

Main Results:

• Homeless children demonstrated a higher prevalence of disruptive behavior disorders compared to housed children.
• Homeless children exhibited significantly lower cognitive scores than their housed counterparts.
• Maternal verbal scores and child nonverbal scores predicted child verbal ability; maternal education, homelessness, and child nonverbal scores predicted child behavior disorders.

Conclusions:

• Homelessness is strongly associated with increased disruptive behavior disorders and diminished cognitive ability in children.
• Maternal education and child's nonverbal skills are critical factors influencing behavioral outcomes in homeless children.
• Interventions should address cognitive and behavioral support for homeless children, considering maternal educational attainment.