Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 28, 2026
08:26
Event-related Potentials During Target-response Tasks to Study Cognitive Processes of Upper Limb Use in Children with Unilateral Cerebral Palsy
Published on: January 11, 2016
Behavioural problems in school age children with cerebral palsy
Marie Brossard-Racine1, Nick Hall, Annette Majnemer
1School of Physical & Occupational Therapy McGill University Health Centre, QC, Canada.
Summary
Behavioral problems are common in children with Cerebral Palsy (CP), with nearly 40% showing difficulties, especially peer issues. Parental stress significantly contributes to these challenges, highlighting the need for family support.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Child Psychology
- Developmental Disabilities
Background:
- Behavioral problems are frequently observed in children with Cerebral Palsy (CP).
- The specific nature of these difficulties and their links to intrinsic or extrinsic factors require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe and characterize behavioral problems in children with CP.
- To identify relationships between behavioral issues and child/family characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 76 children with CP (ages 6-12).
- Assessments included intelligence, motor function, behavioral questionnaires (SDQ, Vineland), and parental stress (Parenting Stress Index).
Main Results:
- 39.4% of children scored in the borderline to clinically abnormal range on the SDQ.
- Peer problems were the most prevalent behavioral difficulty (55.3%).
- High parental stress was strongly associated with behavioral difficulties; lower parental stress correlated with better behaviors.
Conclusions:
- Behavioral difficulties are common in children with CP, independent of socio-demographic or physical/cognitive factors.
- These difficulties are a significant correlate of parental distress.
- Addressing behavioral issues is crucial for the well-being of children with CP and their families.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Conduct Disorder
Conduct disorder is a complex mental health diagnosis characterized by a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior that violates societal norms, the rights of others, or age-appropriate rules. The diagnostic criteria for conduct disorder require the presence of at least three problematic behaviors within the past 12 months, with at least one occurring in the past six months. These behaviors are grouped into four categories: aggression toward people and animals; destruction of property;...
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
01:25Learning Disabilities
Learning disabilities are cognitive disorders caused by neurological impairments that affect cognitive functions like language and reading, without indicating overall intellectual or developmental challenges. These disabilities differ from global intellectual or developmental disabilities as they are limited to distinct cognitive functions. Common learning disabilities include dysgraphia, dyslexia, and dyscalculia, each of which impacts unique aspects of learning.
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a...
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a...
01:30Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
01:21Behavior Modification
Behavioral approaches have often been criticized for ignoring mental processes and focusing solely on observable behavior. However, these approaches provide an optimistic perspective for individuals seeking to change their behaviors. Rather than concentrating on intrinsic personality traits, behavioral approaches suggest that even longstanding habits can be modified by changing the reward contingencies that maintain them.
A real-world application of operant conditioning principles is applied...
A real-world application of operant conditioning principles is applied...
01:30Information Processing Approach
The information-processing theory of cognitive development centers on fundamental mental processes, including attention, memory, and problem-solving skills. Researchers in this field examine how cognitive abilities, such as working memory, evolve and influence children's overall development. Studies indicate that children with stronger working memory tend to excel in reading comprehension, math, and problem-solving compared to peers with less efficient memory skills. Low working memory is also...