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Multimodal Protocol for Assessing Metacognition and Self-Regulation in Adults with Learning Difficulties
Published on: September 27, 2020
Internalizing problems of adults with learning disabilities: a meta-analysis.
Robert M Klassen1, Virginia M C Tze, Wanwisa Hannok
1University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada. robert.klassen@ualberta.ca
Journal of Learning Disabilities
|November 2, 2011
Summary
Adults with learning disabilities (LD) often experience persistent internalizing problems like anxiety and depression, supporting the continuance hypothesis. These mental health issues do not decline with age in individuals with LD.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Education
Background:
- Internalizing problems, including anxiety and depressive symptoms, are frequently observed in individuals with learning disabilities (LD).
- The trajectory of these internalizing problems into adulthood for individuals with LD remains a critical area of investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To meta-analytically examine the association between internalizing problems and learning disabilities in adults.
- To test the abeyance hypothesis (decline in adulthood) versus the continuance hypothesis (persistence into adulthood) of internalizing problems in adults with LD.
Main Methods:
- A meta-analysis was conducted on 15 studies (8 articles, 7 dissertations) comprising 48 effect sizes.
- The total sample size (N) across all studies was 16,239 participants.
Main Results:
- A significant medium effect size (d = 0.51, p < .001) was found, indicating a notable association between internalizing problems and LD in adults.
- Results provided support for the continuance hypothesis, suggesting that internalizing problems persist into adulthood for individuals with LD at rates comparable to younger populations.
Conclusions:
- Internalizing problems are a significant and enduring concern for adults with learning disabilities.
- Findings highlight the need for continued support and targeted interventions for mental health in adults with LD throughout their lifespan.
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