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Behaviour disorders in children with an intellectual disability.
Stacey Ageranioti-Bélanger1, Suzanne Brunet, Guy D'Anjou
1Department of Pediatrics, CHU Sainte-Justine;
Paediatrics & Child Health
|February 2, 2013
Summary
Behavioral disorders are common in children with intellectual disabilities. Behavioral interventions are more effective and better tolerated than medication for managing these challenging behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Behavioral disorders frequently occur in children with intellectual disabilities (ID).
- These disorders can be disabling, impacting daily life and potentially masking or indicating underlying medical or psychiatric conditions.
- Chronic and multiple behavioral issues are common, often compounded by parental reluctance to seek treatment due to misconceptions about treatability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of the management of common behavioral disorders in children and youth with intellectual disabilities.
- To discuss general concepts for addressing problematic behaviors in this population.
- To highlight effective treatment strategies.
Main Methods:
- This is a review article.
- It synthesizes general concepts for managing behavioral disorders in children with ID.
- It provides a high-level overview of prevalent problematic behaviors.
Main Results:
- Common problematic behaviors include sleep disturbances, agitated and aggressive behaviors, and self-injury.
- While pharmacological treatments exist, they are not always the preferred option.
- Behavioral interventions are generally more effective and better tolerated.
Conclusions:
- Behavioral disorders are a significant concern in children with intellectual disabilities.
- Behavioral interventions are recommended as a primary treatment approach.
- Addressing these behaviors is crucial for improving the quality of life for children with ID and their families.
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