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Developmental Outcomes of Internationally Adopted Children
Janet A Welsh1, Andres G Viana
1Prevention Research Center for the Promotion of Human Development, The Pennsylvania State University, 135 E. Nittany Avenue, Suite 402, State College, PA, 16801.
Adoption Quarterly
|August 3, 2013
Summary
Internationally adopted children showed developmental improvements over 18 months. However, those with initial delays or medical issues, and children from Eastern Europe, had lower scores, indicating persistent challenges in child development.
Area of Science:
- Child Development
- Pediatric Health
- International Adoption Studies
Background:
- International adoption presents unique developmental trajectories for children.
- Early developmental assessment is crucial for identifying potential delays in adopted populations.
- Understanding factors influencing development in internationally adopted children informs support strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To track the developmental progress of internationally adopted children over 18 months.
- To identify factors associated with developmental delays in this population.
- To compare developmental outcomes based on birth region and medical history.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study of 106 internationally adopted children (67 girls) over 18 months.
- Utilized the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) at 6, 12, and 24 months post-adoption.
- Assessed gross/fine motor, communication, personal-social, and problem-solving skills.
Main Results:
- Overall linear improvement in most developmental domains was observed.
- Children with initial low scores or medical problems consistently scored lower.
- Communication delays were most common initially; Eastern European adoptees showed lower scores across domains.
Conclusions:
- While international adoptees show developmental gains, persistent disparities exist.
- Medical status and birth region are significant factors in developmental outcomes.
- Early identification and targeted interventions are vital for supporting adopted children's development.
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