Social Cognition in Toddlers, Children, and Adolescents With Down Syndrome: A Scoping Review
Magdalena Muñoz-Montes1,2, Susana Mendive1,3, Marcela Tenorio4,5
1Faculty of Education, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
Background:
Social cognition (SC) involves mental processes underlying interactions. Children and adolescents with Down syndrome face sociocognitive challenges affecting relationships and well-being. This review systematically examines research on SC development in persons with Down syndrome.
Method:
Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, we systematically searched WoS and Scopus for peer-reviewed studies on SC in individuals with Down syndrome (0-19 years). Forty studies (2008-2024) met the criteria and were analysed and assessed for quality using the MMAT tool.
Results:
Evidence does not clearly indicate age-related SC development in Down syndrome. Instead, language is the key factor influencing SC development. Individuals with Down syndrome show challenges in SC and emotion processing, specifically compared to typical development.
Conclusion:
More research is needed, especially longitudinal and developmental trajectory studies, to clarify SC development in Down syndrome and its relation to age. These findings can guide educational and clinical strategies to improve social inclusion and well-being.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Cognitive Development During Adolescence
Revisionist Views of Adolescent and Adult Cognition
Socioemotional Development during Infancy
Primary Temperament Types
Stella Chess...
Autism Spectrum Disorder
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
Causes of Social Behavior II: Cognitive Processes
Social Foundations of Self II: The Generalized Other


