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Biological and environmental risk for poor developmental outcome of young children
J Rojahn1, M G Aman, E Marshburn
1Nisonger Center for Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities, Ohio State University, Columbus 43210-1205.
Insights
This study developed a screening method to identify at-risk children for developmental problems. Six environmental and biological factors were identified as key determinants of developmental delay in young children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Developmental Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Early identification of developmental problems in children is crucial for timely intervention.
- Existing screening methods may not be comprehensive or easily accessible statewide.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and field-test a statewide screening method for identifying children at risk for developmental problems.
- To identify environmental and biological determinants associated with developmental delay.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional retrospective study design.
- Sampled 1,601 families of 2.5- to 3-year-old children from Ohio birth certificate registry.
- Utilized standardized telephone interviews and an abbreviated Developmental Profile II for assessment.
Main Results:
- Identified six independent variables as significant determinants of developmental delay.
- These determinants included both environmental and biological factors.
- Logistic regression analysis confirmed the predictive power of these variables.
Conclusions:
- The developed screening method is effective for identifying children at risk for developmental problems.
- Environmental and biological factors play a significant role in early childhood development.
- This approach can inform public health strategies for early childhood intervention.
Abstract:
A cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted to develop and field test a state-wide screening method for identifying children at risk for developmental problems. Families of 2.5- to 3-year-old children were sampled from the Ohio birth certificate register. Standardized telephone interviews were conducted with 1,601 parents concerning home environment and demographic characteristics. Developmental delay, the outcome variable, was defined by low scores on an abbreviated Developmental Profile II, which was also administered over the telephone. Obstetric history and health status of the newborns was obtained from birth certificates. By means of logistic regression analysis, we found six independent variables representing environmental and biological determinants.