Social adjustment in children diagnosed with sickle cell disease: A retrospective study

Hailey M Zwicker1,2, Taryn B Fay-McClymont2,3,4, Sharon H J Hou5,6

  • 1Hematology, Oncology, Transplant Program, Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

Pediatric Blood & Cancer
|December 19, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Social adjustment in children with sickle cell disease (SCD) is linked to family functioning and executive function. Sociocultural factors like years in Canada and male sex also influence adjustment in pediatric SCD patients.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric neuropsychology
  • Child psychology
  • Hematology

Background:

  • Children with sickle cell disease (SCD) face significant physical, psychological, and social challenges.
  • Understanding social adjustment is crucial for improving quality of life in pediatric SCD patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate social adjustment in children with SCD.
  • To identify factors associated with social adjustment in this population.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective data collection from 32 children with SCD at a tertiary care pediatric hospital.
  • Assessment of social adjustment using the Behavior Assessment System for Children (BASC-3) and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL).
  • Evaluation of executive functioning (BRIEF-2) and non-disease-related factors including family functioning and duration of residence in Canada.

Main Results:

  • 16% of patients reported social adjustment difficulties.
  • Better family functioning and higher executive functioning correlated with better parent-reported social adjustment (PedsQL).
  • Male sex and longer duration of residence in Canada were associated with higher self-reported social adjustment (PedsQL).

Conclusions:

  • Social adjustment in children with SCD is influenced by executive function and family dynamics.
  • Sociocultural factors, such as duration of residence in Canada, play a role in social adjustment.
  • Further research is needed to fully understand these influences and develop targeted interventions.
Abstract

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