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Identification of Emerging Self-Injurious Behavior in Young Children: A Preliminary Study
Patricia F Kurtz1, Michelle D Chin, John M Huete
1Kennedy Krieger Institute and The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.
Summary
Self-injurious behavior (SIB) often starts before age 1 in young children with developmental disabilities. Early identification and assessment are crucial for understanding and managing this chronic condition.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Child Psychiatry
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Self-injurious behavior (SIB) is a chronic disorder with early childhood onset.
- Limited research exists on the emergence of SIB in very young children.
- Understanding SIB onset is critical for early intervention in at-risk populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify, assess, and observe the onset of SIB in children aged 0-5 years.
- To characterize the early emergence and presentation of SIB.
- To explore the relationship between child communication and SIB.
Main Methods:
- Preliminary study involving 32 children with recent onset SIB (within 6 months).
- Participants had or were at risk for intellectual/developmental disabilities.
- Utilized parental interviews, developmental/language assessments, problem behavior measures, and direct home observations.
Main Results:
- SIB emerged before 1 year of age in most participants.
- Multiple SIB topographies and other problem behaviors developed in most children.
- Assessment measures effectively identified SIB and characterized its topography, frequency, and severity.
Conclusions:
- Early childhood, particularly before age 1, is a critical period for SIB emergence.
- Comprehensive assessment is vital for characterizing early SIB in young children.
- Further research is needed to clarify the role of communication in SIB.
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