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Relationship between anxiety and executive functioning among youth with Down syndrome
Natalie A Snodgrass1, Deborah J Fidler2, Lina Patel3
1Department of Clinical Psychology, Seattle Pacific University, Seattle, WA, USA.
Research in Developmental Disabilities
|June 3, 2025
Summary
Anxiety and executive functioning (EF) challenges are common in Down syndrome (DS). This study found bidirectional links, where anxiety impacts EF and vice versa, highlighting the need for integrated interventions.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental disorders
- Cognitive psychology
- Clinical psychology
Background:
- Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) often experience executive functioning (EF) difficulties and anxiety symptoms.
- In the general population, anxiety and EF challenges show bidirectional relationships, impacting tasks like initiation and cognitive shifting.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the interrelationship and directionality between anxiety symptoms and EF in children and adolescents with DS.
- To understand how co-occurring anxiety influences EF and vice versa over time in this population.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal study involving 139 participants with DS (ages 6-17) assessed over one year.
- Parental ratings were used to measure anxiety symptoms and various domains of EF at two time points.
- Participants were categorized based on the presence or absence of co-occurring anxiety diagnoses.
Main Results:
- Concurrent associations were found between EF measures and anxiety/internalizing symptoms at baseline.
- Participants with co-occurring anxiety showed more significant EF difficulties compared to those without.
- Longitudinally, EF (shifting, working memory) predicted later anxiety, while anxiety predicted later EF challenges (shifting, initiation).
Conclusions:
- The relationship between anxiety and EF in Down syndrome is complex and bidirectional.
- Findings underscore the importance of addressing both anxiety and EF challenges in DS.
- Targeted mental health interventions are crucial, recognizing the overlap between anxiety and EF in individuals with DS.
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