Behavioural observations in children with Down's syndrome

Abstract

The behavioural characteristics of 40 children with Down's syndrome were studied using the Achenbach Child Behavior Checklist which was completed by both the children's parents and teachers. Statistically significant differences were observed between study and control groups on externalizing and total scores on responses obtained from both parents and teachers, but not on internalizing scores. Further analysis of the data on a subgroup of 28 children between the ages of 6 and 11 years revealed a 'hyperactive' profile pattern for both boys (n = 16) and girls (n = 12). This was primarily due to heavily weighted positive responses to such statements as 'acts too young', 'can't concentrate', 'impulsive', and 'speech problems'. About one half of the boys sometimes exhibited hyperactive behaviours. In addition, scores of children with Down's syndrome were significantly different from control children on the following items: 'trouble sleeping', 'demands a lot of attention', 'clings to adults', 'stubborn', 'prefers playing with younger children', and 'is disobedient at school and home'. In general, however, item analysis revealed that most behaviours of children with Down's syndrome as recorded on the Achenbach Child Behavior Checklist compare well with those of children in the control group.