Cross-syndrome comparison of real-world executive functioning and problem solving using a new problem-solving...

Area of Science:

• Neurodevelopmental Disorders
• Cognitive Psychology
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Individuals with Williams syndrome and Down syndrome often have executive function deficits.
• Everyday problem-solving in these groups remains under-explored.
• This study investigates cross-syndrome differences in daily executive functioning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine everyday executive functioning and problem-solving in Williams syndrome and Down syndrome.
• To identify syndrome-specific patterns in executive function and problem-solving strategies.
• To inform interventions for improving daily life functioning.

Main Methods:

• Parents/carers of individuals with Williams syndrome (n=47) and Down syndrome (n=31) completed questionnaires.
• A control group of typically developing children (n=34) was included.
• The Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF) and a novel Problem-Solving Questionnaire were used.

Main Results:

• Problem-solving success likelihood was lower in both syndromic groups compared to controls.
• Williams syndrome group showed lower problem-solving success than the Down syndrome group.
• Specific strategies like asking for help (Down syndrome) and emotional regulation (Williams syndrome) were identified as crucial.

Conclusions:

• Individuals with Down syndrome may use compensatory strategies like seeking help.
• Emotional reactivity appears to impede problem-solving in Williams syndrome.
• Understanding syndrome-specific difficulties is key to enhancing daily functioning.