Atypical Sensory Processing and Its Correlation with Behavioral Problems in Late Preterm Children at Age Two

Area of Science:

• Developmental Pediatrics
• Neuroscience
• Child Psychology

Background:

• Late preterm (LP) birth is associated with potential developmental challenges.
• Sensory processing differences and behavioral problems are common in early childhood.
• Understanding the interplay between sensory processing and behavior in LP children is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the prevalence of atypical sensory processing in late preterm (LP) versus term-born children at two years of age.
• To investigate the co-occurrence of atypical sensory processing and behavioral problems (internalizing/externalizing) in both groups.
• To identify factors associated with atypical sensory processing in LP children.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 104 children (52 LP, 52 matched term-born) at two years of age.
• Caregiver completion of the Infant/Toddler Sensory Profile-Chinese version and the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL-C/1.5-5).
• Statistical analysis to compare prevalence rates and co-occurrence, including Bonferroni correction.

Main Results:

• LP children exhibited similar overall rates of atypical sensory processing compared to term-born peers.
• Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) experience and duration of ventilation/oxygen support correlated with atypical sensory processing in LP children.
• A significant co-occurrence of atypical sensory processing (auditory, oral, sensation avoiding) and behavioral problems was found specifically in the LP group.

Conclusions:

• The impact of late preterm birth on sensory processing may be subtle by age two, except for those with complex neonatal medical histories.
• A high co-occurrence of atypical sensory processing and behavioral problems in LP children suggests the need for integrated assessments.
• Sensory processing evaluations can aid in understanding and managing behavioral issues in late preterm children.