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Behavioural problems among visually impaired between 6 months and 5 years
E Tirosh1, M R Shnitzer, M Davidovitch
1Hannah Khousy Child Development Center, Bnai Zion Center, Haifa, Israel.
Summary
Behavioral problems are common in legally blind children, affecting nearly half. Overanxious, oppositional, and avoidant disorders were most frequent, requiring psychological support for affected children and families.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Child Psychology
- Developmental Pediatrics
Background:
- Behavioral problems are a significant concern in children with visual impairments.
- Understanding the specific types and prevalence of these issues is crucial for early intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence and types of behavioral problems in legally blind children.
- To identify specific behavioral disorders and their associations with other conditions.
Main Methods:
- A 13-year cohort study of 182 legally blind children (6 months to 5 years).
- Utilized standardized ophthalmological, neurodevelopmental, and physical examinations.
- Included parental interviews and video recordings, with diagnoses based on DSM-III-R criteria.
Main Results:
- Behavioral problems were documented in 49% of the children studied.
- The most prevalent disorders were overanxious (14 children), oppositional (15 children), and avoidant (26 children).
- Overanxious disorder correlated with partial sightedness; avoidant disorder with neurodevelopmental deficits.
Conclusions:
- Legally blind children exhibit a high prevalence of behavioral problems.
- Targeted psychological monitoring and support are essential for these children and their families.
- Early identification and intervention can mitigate the impact of behavioral disorders.