Related Experiment Videos
Ability and dependency in adolescents with severe learning disabilities
I McKinlay1, A Ferguson, C Jolly
1Mackay Gordon Centre, Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Pendlebury, Manchester.
Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology
|January 1, 1996
Summary
This study explored the abilities and care needs of adolescents with severe learning disabilities. Findings indicate a correlation between communication/mobility skills and social behavior, with earlier puberty markers in those with Down syndrome.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Special Education
Background:
- Adolescents with severe learning disabilities present unique challenges in care and support.
- Understanding their abilities and needs is crucial for effective intervention and quality of life.
- Limited research exists on the specific abilities and care requirements of this demographic in the UK context.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the abilities and care needs of adolescents with severe learning disabilities.
- To identify factors associated with better social behavior in this population.
- To examine developmental milestones, such as puberty, in relation to specific conditions like Down syndrome.
Main Methods:
- Structured interviews were conducted with parents/carers of 71 adolescents (42 males, 29 females) aged 11-25 years.
- Participants attended schools or adult training centers in Salford, Manchester.
- Data collected focused on functional abilities, social behavior, and developmental milestones.
Main Results:
- 56% of subjects could speak in sentences, and 82% could walk.
- Better walking and talking abilities were linked to improved social behavior.
- Earlier onset of shaving and menarche was observed in subjects with Down syndrome compared to others.
- A significant percentage of females (59%) and males (24%) were thought to have received sex education.
Conclusions:
- Functional abilities like walking and talking are associated with better social behavior in adolescents with severe learning disabilities.
- Individuals with Down syndrome may experience earlier pubertal development.
- Further research is needed to address the sexual health and education needs of this vulnerable population, including understanding the prevalence of sexual abuse.