Adaptive and maladaptive functioning of institutionalized and noninstitutionalized fragile X males

The profile of adaptive strengths and weaknesses of 12 institutionalized and 15 noninstitutionalized fragile X males was examined using the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales. Fragile X males in both living settings demonstrated relative strengths in Daily Living Skills compared to functioning in the domains of Communication and Socialization. Within daily living skills, personal (e.g., grooming, toileting) and domestic (e.g., cooking, cleaning) skills were better developed than community skills (e.g., managing money, attending work). Both institutionalized and noninstitutionalized fragile X males showed high levels of maladaptive behavior characterized by attentional impairments; impulsivity; and defiant, oppositional "externalizing" behaviors. High levels of anxiety were also apparent. The institutional sample showed particular deficits in expressive and written communication but was more likely than the noninstitutional group to have individuals with levels of daily living skills above their mental ages. These findings have direct implications for intervention with fragile X males.