Abstract
Children with cerebral palsy (CP) often exhibit mental health problems, such as depressive symptoms. The purpose of this study was to describe the self-rated depressive symptoms in children with and without CP and to investigate the associated predictors. Participants included 24 children with CP and 33 typically developing (TD) children. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Birleson Depression Self-Rating Scale for Children. Parents of the participants completed the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Severity of self-rated depressive symptoms was higher in children with CP than that in TD children. Particularly, decline in activities and enjoyment was identified as a contributor to the increased severity of depressive symptoms. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis revealed that the greater severity of depressive symptoms in children with CP was mediated by hyperactivity/inattention and peer problems. Our study suggests that it is imperative to provide opportunities to participate in social activities from an early age.
Highlights
Cerebral palsy (CP) is one of the most common physical disabilities that develop in the early postnatal period
Hierarchical multiple regression analysis revealed that the greater severity of depressive symptoms observed in children with CP was mediated by hyperactivity/inattention and peer problems rather than the effects of motor impairments
To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that demonstrated that self-rated depressive symptoms in children with CP were more severe than those in typically developing (TD) children
Summary
Cerebral palsy (CP) is one of the most common physical disabilities that develop in the early postnatal period. It affects the development of movement and posture. Some studies have reported elevated levels of emotional, social, and behavioral symptoms suggestive of mental health problems [3,4]. These problems may reduce the motivation to participate in various physical activities [5]. Reduced activity levels and participation restrictions due to these impairments may lead to decline in mental health and quality of life (QOL) in children with motor impairments when compared with typically developing (TD) peers
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