Adaptive Behavior and Intelligence in Adolescents With Down Syndrome: An Exploratory Investigation

Down syndrome (DS) is characterized by difficulties in both intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. These sets of abilities are considered as separate but related domains with small to moderate correlations. The main objective of this study was to explore the relationship of intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior in adolescents with DS because previous studies have shown different relationship patterns between these constructs across other syndromes. Fifty-three adolescents with DS were assessed regarding their intellectual functioning whereas adaptive behavior was reported by parents and teachers. Participants showed a better performance on verbal than nonverbal tasks when assessing intellectual functioning, contrary to previous findings. Regarding adaptive behavior, higher social skills were reported than conceptual and practical skills. Intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior showed a medium correlation, consistent with observations in typical population. These results support the exploration of the variability across the DS phenotype.