Behavioral and Socioemotional Development in Preterm Children

Myriam Peralta-Carcelen1, Justin Schwartz1, Andrea C Carcelen2

  • 1Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Dearth Tower Suite 5602, McWane. 1600 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233-1711, USA.

Clinics in Perinatology
|August 27, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Premature birth increases the risk of neurodevelopmental issues, impacting motor, cognitive, and socioemotional skills. Early detection of behavioral problems in preterm infants is crucial for timely intervention and better long-term outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Neurodevelopmental science
  • Pediatric neurology
  • Developmental psychology

Background:

  • Prematurity is a major risk factor for neurodevelopmental impairments.
  • Preterm infants face challenges in motor, cognitive, language, and socioemotional development.
  • Socioemotional functioning is critical for long-term overall function.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the increased vulnerability of the preterm brain.
  • To discuss the higher prevalence of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in preterm children.
  • To emphasize the importance of early detection and intervention for behavioral and socioemotional problems in preterm children.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review on neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm infants.
  • Analysis of studies comparing behavioral and socioemotional competence in preterm versus full-term children.
  • Synthesis of data on the incidence of ADHD and ASD in preterm populations.

Main Results:

  • Preterm children exhibit a higher frequency of behavioral and socioemotional problems compared to full-term children.
  • Clinical features of ADHD and ASD are more common in preterm populations, though exact rates vary.
  • The developing preterm brain is particularly vulnerable during critical periods, contributing to these issues.

Conclusions:

  • Early identification of socioemotional and behavioral deficits in preterm children is essential.
  • Timely intervention can significantly improve long-term functional outcomes for preterm infants.
  • Addressing the neurodevelopmental challenges associated with prematurity is critical for improving quality of life.

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