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Published on: August 5, 2017
Executive function and memory in children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
Jacqueline Pei1, Jenelle Job, Katrina Kully-Martens
1Department of Educational Psychology, University of Alberta , Edmonton, Canada.
Summary
Children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) show significant memory and executive functioning (EF) deficits. The Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure test revealed difficulties in organization and accuracy, impacting learning and recall.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Pediatric Health
Background:
- Executive functioning (EF) and memory are intricately linked, especially for complex information recall.
- The Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure (ROCF) is a key tool for assessing these cognitive functions.
- Limited research exists on ROCF performance in children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between memory and EF in children with FASD using the ROCF.
- To identify specific cognitive challenges faced by children with FASD.
- To inform diagnostic, treatment, and intervention strategies for EF and memory deficits in FASD.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 70 children (35 FASD, 35 controls), aged 6-12 years, were assessed.
- Participants with FASD met Canadian diagnostic guidelines (Chudley et al., 2005) using the 4-digit code (Astley, 2004).
- The Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure (ROCF) was administered to all participants.
Main Results:
- Children with FASD exhibited significant impairments in organization, accuracy, and memory recall compared to controls.
- A distinct performance profile emerged for children with FASD on the ROCF.
- These findings support the presence of pervasive EF and memory deficits in children with FASD.
Conclusions:
- Children with FASD experience notable difficulties with executive functioning and memory.
- The ROCF effectively highlights these cognitive deficits in the FASD population.
- Results offer valuable insights for improving assessment and intervention for children with FASD.
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