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Temperament moderated by neonatal factors predicted behavioral problems in childhood: A prospective longitudinal
Rafaela G M Cassiano1, Claudia M Gaspardo1, Maria Beatriz Martins Linhares1
1Department of Neurosciences and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Avenida Tenente Catão Roxo, 2260, Ribeirão Preto, SP CEP: 14051-140, Brazil.
Objective:
The present study aimed to examine the predictor effects of neonatal, sociodemographic characteristics, and temperament assessed at 18-36 months of age on behavioral problems in 4- to 5-year-old children born preterm.
Methods:
The sample comprised 70 children born preterm. The amount and the intensity of stress procedures during a stay in the neonatal intensive care unit were evaluated using the Neonatal Infant Stressor Scale. Temperament was assessed using the Early Childhood Behavior Questionnaire, and behavioral problems were assessed using the Child Behavior Checklist 11/2-5. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed.
Results:
Total behavioral problems were predicted by a child temperament of more negative affectivity and less effortful control, moderated by gestational age. Internalizing behavioral problems was predicted by more negative affectivity and less effortful control moderated by male sex and associated with lower gestational age. Externalizing behavior problems was predicted by less effortful control.
Conclusions:
The main findings of the present study showed that the high immaturity at the birth of preterm infants, associated with temperament traits of more negative affectivity and less effortful control, increase the risk for future behavioral problems.
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Prediction Intervals
However, the point estimate is most likely not the exact value of the population parameter, but close to it. After calculating point estimates, we construct interval estimates, called confidence intervals or prediction intervals. This prediction interval comprises a range of values unlike the point estimate and is a better predictor of the observed sample value, y.
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