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Infants with Down syndrome: a look at temperament
C F Zickler1, J D Morrow, M J Bull
1Ann Whitehill Down Syndrome Program, James Whitcomb Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.
Summary
Infants with Down syndrome exhibit unique temperament traits, including higher activity and approach behaviors. While some differences exist, their overall temperament is more similar to typically developing infants.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Pediatrics
- Genetics
Background:
- Infants with Down syndrome (DS) are often stereotyped in existing literature.
- This study investigates early temperament characteristics in newborns with DS.
- A hypothesis proposed unique temperament traits in infants with DS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the temperament characteristics of infants aged 1-4 months with Down syndrome.
- To identify if specific temperament traits are unique to newborns with Down syndrome.
Main Methods:
- Utilized The Early Infancy Temperament Questionnaire.
- Distributed questionnaires, cover letters, and consent forms to families with newborns diagnosed with Down syndrome.
- Collected data from 32 families who completed the study.
Main Results:
- Infants with Down syndrome were rated higher in activity and approach behaviors.
- They were rated lower in intensity and higher in distractibility compared to typically developing infants.
- Findings suggest some unique characteristics but overall similarity to peers.
Conclusions:
- Temperament characteristics of infants with Down syndrome are important for understanding their development.
- Appreciation of these traits is crucial for healthcare professionals, particularly nurse practitioners.
- Supports the integration and mainstreaming of infants and children with Down syndrome.