bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Individual Differences in Risk of Child Abuse by Adolescent Mothers: Assessment in the Perinatal Period
Authors: Haskett Mary E. , Johnson Cheryl A. , Miller Janet W.
Published: December 2006

Abstract Abuse risk potential and parenting attitudes of 66 adolescent mothers were examined during the perinatal period using self‐report instruments. Approximately one‐half of the sample was considered to be at significant risk. Specific risk factors included distress, rigidity in parenting attitudes, and inappropriate expectations of children. Younger adolescents were at greater risk of abuse, advocated the use of physical punishment more strongly, and reported greater unhappiness than older adolescents. Teens reporting limited social support were also at greater risk for abuse. Low acceptance of the pregnancy was related to abuse potential for parenting, but not pregnant adolescents. A history of maltreatment was related to self‐reported problems with family members but not to overall risk implications for the prevention of abuse among adolescent mothers are discussed.
Family Involvement in Residential Treatment of Children with Retardation: Is there Evidence of Detachment?
Authors: Blacher Jan , Baker Bruce L.
Published: December 2006

Abstract Family involvement could be critical for successful residential treatment. Historically, however, out of home placement for children wish mental retardation meant a severing of meaningful ties with their families. Today, families have greater involvement with pre‐placement services and might be more involved in residential treatment as well. Families (N= 55) were interviewed twice, approximately one and two years after placement, to assess their involvement with the child and their reactions to placement. Contrary to previous findings, family involvement was high and stable; there was no evidence of behavioral detachment. Moreover, respondents primarily reported post ‐placement benefits to the family. Family emotional reactions were considered within a framework of “psychological tasks of placement”.
Face Perception in Children with Autism and Asperger's Syndrome
Authors: Davies Susan , Bishop Dorothy , Manstead Antony S. R. , Tantam Digby
Published: December 2006

Abstract— Children with diagnoses of either autism or Asperger's syndrome were matched on measures of verbal mental age with nonautistic control children. They were tested on their abilities to process both facial and nonfacial stimuli. There were no significant differences between the low ability autistic and control groups, but the high ability autistic and Asperger's children performed significantly worse than controls across all tests. Group averages masked substantial individual variation. The results are seen as indicating a general perceptual deficit that is not specific to faces or emotions. This appears to be a common correlate of autism and Asperger's syndrome, rather than a core symptom.
The Effects of Parental Separation, the Timing of Separation and Gender on Children's Performance on Cognitive Tests
Authors: Fergusson David M. , Lynskey Michael T. , Horwood L. John
Published: December 2006

Abstract— The relationship between exposure to parental separation and measures of cognitive ability and school achievement was examined in a birth cohort of New Zealand children studied to the age of 13 years. Children who were exposed to parental separation following the point of school entry had mean test scores that were between. 1 and. 3 standard deviations lower than children who had not been exposed to separation even when due allowance was made for potentially confounding variables. Separation prior to school entry was found to be unrelated to later outcomes after adjustment for confounding factors. There was no evidence to suggest that the effects of separation varied with the child's gender. The association between parental separation after school entry and cognitive test scores was similar for children whose custodial parents remarried and those who did not remarry.
Prematurity, Posture and the Development of Looking Behaviour During Early Communication
Authors: van Beek Y. , Hopkins B. , Hoeksma J. B. , Samsom J. F.
Published: December 2006

Abstract— This study concerns the developing relationship between motor control and looking behaviour in full term (N=15) and pre‐term (N=29) infants during face‐to‐face interaction with the mother at 6, 12 and 18 weeks of corrected age. Infants with inborn errors or major medical complications were excluded. In the pre‐term infants the development of head and arm postures during interaction differed from the full term pattern, especially in infants born before 32 weeks and/or small‐for‐gestational age. The full term infants were more advanced than other infants in the ability to grasp an object. These findings were related to group differences in looking behaviour, suggesting that differences in the development of looking behaviour may be (partly) accounted for by differences in the development of motor control.
Comorbidity of Empirically Based Syndromes in Matched General Population and Clinical Samples
Authors: McConaughy Stephanie H. , Achenbach Thomas M.
Published: December 2006

Abstract— Comorbidity of deviance on eight empirically based syndromes was compared in matched general population and clinical samples of 2, 705 children aged 4‐18, using a bidirectional formula to avoid confounding effects of differential base rates. Syndromes were assessed via parent ratings on the CBCL, teacher ratings on the TRF, and self ratings on the YSR. Significantly higher comorbidity rates were obtained for clinical than general population samples for all 28 pairings of CBCL syndromes, 15 pairings of TRF syndromes, and 22 pairings of YSR syndromes. Bidirectional comorbidity rates for empirically based syndromes were compared to pairings of comparable DSM‐III diagnoses.
The Emanuel Miller Memorial Lecture 1993 Genetic Research and Identification of Environmental Influences
Authors: Plomin Robert
Published: December 2006

As the importance of genetic influence in developmental psychopathology becomes widely accepted, we should not lose sight of the importance of genetic research for the investigation and identification of environmental influences. First, genetic research provides the best available evidence for the importance of nongenetic factors in behavioural development. Rarely does genetic influence account for more than half of the variance. Second, genetic research indicates that environmental effects on behavioural development largely involve nonshared environmental processes that make children in the same family different from one another. New research on this topic is presented and implications for research are discussed.
Primary Prevention of Child Physical Abuse and Neglect: A Critical Review. Part I
Authors: MacMillan Harriet L. , MacMillan James H. , Offord David R. , Griffith Lauren , MacMillan Angus
Published: December 2006

This paper (Part I) and its companion paper (Part II) provide an overview of the primary prevention of child maltreatment. Part I reviews the effectiveness of interventions aimed at the primary prevention of child physical abuse and neglect. Prospective controlled trials published between January 1979 and May 1993 were systematically identified. The quality of each study was determined using criteria which assessed methodological rigor. Interventions aimed at the prevention of physical abuse and neglect were classified into six main categories within the broad group of perinatal and early childhood programs. While many of these programs did not show a reduction in physical abuse or neglect, there is evidence that extended home visitation can prevent physical abuse and neglect among disadvantaged families.
A Case‐Control Family History Study of Autism
Authors: Bolton P. , Macdonald H. , Pickles A. , Rios P. , Goode S. , Crowson M. , Bailey A. , Rutter M.
Published: December 2006

Family history data on 99 autistic and 36 Down's syndrome probands are reported. They confirmed a raised familial loading for both autism and more broadly defined pervasive developmental disorders in siblings (2.9% and 2.9%, respectively, vs 0% in the Down's group) and also evidence for the familial aggregation of a lsser'variant of autism, comprising more subtle communication/social impairments or stereotypic behaviours, but not mental retardation alone. Between 12.4 and 20.4% of the autism siblings and 1.6% and 3.2% of the Down's siblings exhibited this lesser variant, depending on the stringency of its definition. Amongst autistic probands with speech, various features of their disorder (increased number of autistic symptoms; reduced verbal and performance ability) as well as a history of obstetric complications, indexed an elevation in familial loading. No such association was seen in the probands without speech, even though familial loading for the lesser variant in this subgroup, was significantly higher than in the Down's controls. The findings suggest that the autism phenotype extends beyond autism as traditionally diagnosed; that aetiology involves several genes; that autism is genetically heterogeneous; and that obstetric abnormalities in autistic subjects may derive from abnormality in the foetus.
Visuospatial Difficulties and Clumsiness: On the Interpretation of Conjoined Deficits
Authors: Henderson Sheila E. , Barnett Anna , Henderson Leslie
Published: December 2006

Sixteen children with motor difficulties and 16 controls, matched on age, gender and verbal I.Q., were assessed on the Test Of Motor Impairment, various graphic tasks and a measure of visuospatial discrimination. Poor perceptual and motor performance tended to co‐occur but contrary to the visuospatial deficit account of clumsiness these abilities were uncorrelated even when attention was restricted to the less proficient children. There was no tendency for the control group's superiority in graphic reproduction to diminish when visual feedback was withheld. Some suggestions are offered concerning more appropriate methods for framing and testing causal deficit hypotheses.
Practitioner Review: Verbal Working Memory Development and its Disorders
Authors: Hulme Charles , Roodenrys Steven
Published: December 2006

Abstract Working memory refers to the systems responsible for the temporary storage and manipulation of information during the performance of cognitive tasks. There is good deal of evidence that verbal short‐teem memory function as a working system. We review advances in our understanding of the nature and limitations of verbal short‐term memory and the reasons for its development with age, and go on to consider the common association between impairments of verbal short‐term memory and other impairments of cognitive development. We conclude by considering the relationship between short‐term memory development and cognitive development.
A Comparison of Phonological Skills in Children with Reading Comprehension Difficulties and Children with Decoding Difficulties
Authors: Stothard Susan E. , Hulme Charles
Published: December 2006

Abstract This paper examines phonologic skills in children with two distinct forms of reading difficulty: comprehension problems and decocting problems. In the first study a group of children with normal decoding skills but poor reading comprehension skill. was studied. These children were found to have age‐appropriate phonological skills It is argued that normal phonological skills have enabled them to develop proficient decoding skills. A second study assessed the phonological skills of a group of children with decoding difficulties. These children showed marked deficits on tests of phonological skills. It appears that weak phonological skills underlie these children's decoding difficulties.
The Impact of Child IQ, Parent IQ and Sibling IQ on Child Behavioural Deviance Scores
Authors: Goodman Robert , Simonoff Emily , Stevenson Jim
Published: December 2006

Abstract In an epidemiological sample of 411 l3‐year‐old twins of normal intelligence, both parents and teachers reported more behavioural problems among children with lower IQs. This was not attributable to the effects of parental IQ or social class and WAS not entirely mediated by lower scholastic attainments. Different causal models are discussed: “rater bias” and “IQ is a consequence” explanations seem less plausible than “IQ is a cause” and “IQ is a maker” explanations. Higher parental IQ was associated with more emotional symptoms in the child, both by parental and school report There was no evidence that being brighter or less bright than a (twin) sibling influenced behavioural deviance, casting doubt on the importance of contrast effects.
Are Anxiety Symptoms in Childhood Heritable?
Authors: Thapar Anita , McGuffin Peter
Published: December 2006

Abstract Although childhood anxiety appears to aggregate in families, transmission could be explained by both genetic and shared environmental factors. Twin studies can be used to disentangle genetic and environmental effects. In this study, a systematically ascertained sample of twins was used to investigate whether anxiety symptoms are heritable. Patent‐rated anxiety symptoms could best be explained by an additive genetic model with heritability estimated at 59% However, when self ratings were analysed (in the adolescent subsample), familial transmission could be accounted for by shared environmental factors only.
A Twin‐Singleton Comparison of Problem Behaviour in 2‐3‐Year‐Olds
Authors: van den Oord Edwin J. C. G. , Koot Hans M. , Boomsma Dorret I. , Verhulst Frank C. , Orlebeke J. F.
Published: December 2006

Abstract Twin‐singleton differences in problem behaviours in 2–3‐year‐olds were studied. Maternal ratings of children's problem behaviours were obtained with the CBCL/2–3. The twin sample Consisted d 1863 twin pairs (456 MZ, 907 DZ), the sample of singletons consisted of 420 children from the general population. Results indicated that the general level of problem behaviours in twins was broadly comparable to that in singletons. Four of the seven syndromes showed lower scores for twins. These difference, however, were small and mainly caused In tower scores for DZ twins in comparison to MZ twins and singletons. Pan of the difference could be attributed to the higher maternal age in the twin groups I Higher means for boys were found for the total problem score, and the Aggressive and Overactive syndromes.
Deafness, Conversation and Theory of Mind
Authors: Peterson Candida C. , Siegal Michael
Published: December 2006

AbstractThe child's developing theory of the mind as an interconnected network of beliefs, desires and feelings that govern behaviour provides a cornerstone for social and intellectual life. Recent research has suggested that autistic children have difficulty acquiring such a theory. Although it is speculated that a specific neurological deficit may be responsible for autistic children's difficulties on false belief tasks devised to lest a theory of mind, these may also be due to a lack of exposure to conversation about mental states. In this study we explored the development of a theory of mind in a group of 26 signing, prelingually‐deaf Australian children of normal intelligence, aged 8–13 years. Results revealed that 65% of these deaf children failed a simple test of false belief which normal preschoolers, mentally retarded children, and other handicapped groups–apart from children with autism–routinely pass at a mental age of 4–5 years. No significant difference emerged between deaf children's performance and that of autistic children tested on the same task in previous research. We discuss the results in terms of a conversational account of the development of a theory of mind in deaf children, and the extent to which this account is applicable to children with autism.
Child and Adolescent Sex Abuse Perpetrators: A Review of The Research Literature
Authors: Vizard Eileen , Monck Elizabeth , Misch Peter
Published: December 2006

Abstract This paper reviews the existing literature on selected issues in relation to child and adolescent sex abuse perpetrators. The relatively recent recognition of this phenomenon and the multiple problems of definition in this field may have affected the figures for incidence and prevalence. Among known cases a high proportion of young sex abuse perpetrators have suffered earlier adversities such as sexual and physical victimisation, dysfunctional family relationships and peer isolation. Despite a slender research data base on which to draw, treatment programmes for this client group have proliferated and many of these have not been adequately evaluated. There is a pressing need for the adoption of agreed definitions of outcome targets and measures and establishing longterm outcome studies with this group of children and adolescents.
A Twin Study of Competence and Problem Behavior in Childhood and Early Adolescence
Authors: Edelbrock Craig , Rende Richard , Plomin Robert , Thompson Lee Anne
Published: December 2006

Abstract The Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) was completed by parents of 181 pairs of same‐sex twins ages 7–15 (mean age = 11.0 years). Correlations between scores on the CBCL scales for 99 pairs of monozygotic twins and 82 pairs of dizygotic twins indicated significant genetic influences that varied according to the specific area of competence and problem behavior. Model‐fitting estimates derived from multiple regression analyses indicated significant genetic influence on competence in school and on all areas of problem behavior. In addition, significant shared environmental influence was detected for amount and quality of participation in activities, quality of social relationships, performance in school, anxiety/depression, and delinquent behaviour. Implications for future work on the mechanisms underlying these effects are discussed.
Schizoid Personality in Girls: A Follow‐Up Study–What are the Links with Asperger's Syndrome?
Authors: Wolff Sula , McGuire Ralph J.
Published: December 2006

Abstract Child psychiatric records of 33 girls given a diagnosis of “schizoid” personality in childhood, were compared with records of a control group of other referred girls and with those of 32 pairs of “schizoid” and control boys. Seventeen “schizoid” girls were seen again in adult life and compared with 32 “schizoid” boys previously followed up at the same age. The features of “schizoid” girls in childhood and adult life were very similar to those of the boys. A striking finding, possible due to referral bias, was the high rate of antisocial conduct in “schizoid” girls, both in childhood and later life. The dilemmas of diagnostic classification of this group of patients are discussed.
Nine‐Month Changes of Maternal Expressed Emotion in Conduct and Emotional Disorders of Childhood: A Follow‐Up Study
Authors: Vostanis Panos , Nicholls Judith
Published: December 2006

Abstract In this follow‐up study, mothers of 28 children with conduct disorders (CD) and 29 children with emotional disorders (ED) of 6–11 years of age, were interviewed and rated for expressed emotion 9 months after their first clinical assessment. Mothers of children with CD expressed significantly less criticism and higher warmth after 9 months. Initial externalizing scores in the CD group and initial internalizing scores in the ED group at the first assessment predicted symptomatic change, in contrast with EE scales. Initial externalizing scores and low levels of maternal warmth predicted presence of conduct disorder at the last contact with the clinician. The implications of the findings on the development of treatment techniques are discussed.
Family Structure, Family Functioning and Adolescent Well‐Being: the Transcendent Influence of Parental Style
Authors: McFarlane Allan H. , Bellissimo Anthony , Norman Geoffrey R.
Published: December 2006

Abstract This study assessed the association between parental style, family functioning and adolescent well being, contrasting intact families with those of changed configuration. Eight hundred and one grade 10 general level teenagers in 11 high schools of a single educational system were the subjects. Results indicated that the configuration of the family was not the key determinant of effectiveness of family functioning. Instead the style of parenting turned out to be the main determinant of both family functioning and well being of the adolescents. While both “parents” were judged to have contributed to these outcomes cross gender effects were found.
Clinical Correlates of Enuresis in ADHD and Non‐ADHD Children
Authors: Biederman Joseph , Santangelo Susan L. , Faraone Stephen V. , Kiely Kathleen , Guite Jessica , Mick Eric , Reed Ellen D. , Kraus Ilana , Jellinek Michael , Perrin James
Published: December 2006

AbstractEnuresis and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are common childhood disorders that often co‐occur. Although each has been linked to neurodevelopmental immaturity and increased risk for psychopathology, the clinical correlates of enuresis remain unclear. Subjects were 140 6–17–year‐old boys with DSM‐III‐R ADHD and 120 non‐ADHD controls. Information on enuresis and psychiatric diagnoses was obtained in a standardized manner blind to the child's clinical status. Our results show that (1) enuresis did not increase the risk for psychopathology in children with or without ADHD; (2) enuresis was not associated with psychosocial adversity or developmental immaturity; (3) enuresis was associated with increased risk for learning disability, impaired intellectual functioning, and impaired school achievement in normal control children but not in children with ADHD; and (4) the same pattern of findings was obtained after stratifying children with enuresis by primary versus secondary and by nocturnal versus diurnal subtypes. These results suggest that the clinical implications of enuresis may differ for ADHD and non‐ADHD children.
ADHD and Thyroid Abnormalities: A Research Note
Authors: Spencer Thomas , Biederman Joseph , Wilens Timothy , Guite Jessica , Harding Meg
Published: December 2006

Abstract Contradictory findings have been reported on associations between ADHD and thyroid abnormalities including the syndrome of generalized resistance to thyroid hormone. We systematically reviewed thyroid function in a large group of children and adolescents with ADHD (N=132). We failed to find evidence of generalized resistance to thyroid hormone. Although mild laboratory abnormalities in thyroid function were observed in a minority of ADHD subjects, they were not different than rates reported in the literature for normal children.
The Twelfth Jack Tizard Memorial Lecture *
Authors: Farrington David P.
Published: December 2006

Abstract In the Cambridge Study in Delinquent Development, 411 South London males have been followed up from age 8 to age 32. The most important childhood (age 8–10) predictors of delinquency were antisocial child behaviour, impulsivity, low intelligence and attainment, family criminality, poverty and poor parental child‐rearing behaviour. Offending was only one element of a larger syndrome of antisocial behaviour that arose in childhood and persisted into adulthood. Marriage, employment and moving out of London fostered desistance from offending. Early prevention experiments are needed to reduce delinquency, targeting low attainment, poor parenting, impulsivity and poverty.
Family Dynamics and School Achievement in Cyprus
Authors: Georgiou Stelios N.
Published: December 2006

Abstract The purpose of this study was to examine the extent to which family cohesion, a functional characteristic of family life, is related to school achievement. It is already established in the international literature that such a relationship does exist between school achievement and a number of structural characteristics of the family, particularly socioeconomic status (SES). Demographic data were collected from all the ninth grade students of two Greek Cypriot high schools, one serving a suburban and the other serving a rural population. The students (N= 391) completed a self report questionnaire that was designed to measure the degree of their family cohesion or the emotional togetherness that they felt existing among the members of their family. It was found that the degree of family cohesion was as able to discriminate them in terms of school achievement as their family's SES. Both variables produced statistically significant differences, in contrast to gender and place of residence (urban vs rural). The results are discussed in relation to the Greek Cypriot family context.
Under‐Eating and Over‐Eating Concerns Among Adolescents
Authors: Mueller Cynthia , Field Tiffany , Yando Regina , Harding Jeff , Gonzalez Ketty P. , Lasko David , Bendell Debra
Published: December 2006

Abstract 462 adolescents were given a set of scales to determine their concerns about eating (under‐eating or over‐eating), and perceptions of family and peer intimacy, social support, self‐esteem, depression and exercise. Although only 10% stated that they were “underweight” and 21% that they were “overweight”, as many as 50% reported having eating concerns. As compared to those who did not have concerns about eating, those who were concerned about undereating felt that they had poorer relationships with their mothers and fathers, less social support, lower self‐esteem and low levels of exercise. In contrast, those who were concerned about overeating perceived having an intimacy problem only with their fathers. Like those concerned about undereating, the group concerned about overeating also had lower self‐esteem and low levels of exercise. But, unlike the under‐eating concern group, the over‐eating concern group scored higher on the depression scale.
4.5 to 7 Years: Fearful Behaviour, Fears and Worries
Authors: Stevenson‐Hinde Joan , Shouldice Anne
Published: December 2006

Abstract Fearful behaviour, fears and worries of young children are central not only to normal development, but also to the development of anxiety disorders. In a community sample, consistency from age 4.5 to 7 years was significant for all measures of behavioural approach/withdrawal, as well as for the degree of reported fears and worries. Observed approach/withdrawal behaviour was not correlated with fears and worries reported by either mothers or children. There were no sex differences in the levels of measures or their consistency, with one exception: maternal reports of worries were less consistent but possibly more valid for girls than for boys. When interviewed at 7 years, girls expressed worries about family members, while boys tended to worry about their own performance.
Savants, Segments, Art and Autism
Authors: Pring L. , Hermelin B. , Heavey L.
Published: December 2006

Abstract This study describes two experiments which investigate pattern construction by graphically gifted, autistic savants. We explore whether the notion of weak central coherence in autism might be extended to account for the relatively high frequency of savants among the autistic population. We also suggest that an awareness of constituent segments in wholes may be relevant to artistic talent in general.
Maternal Directiveness and Infant Compliance at One Year of Age: A Comparison Between Mothers and Their Developmentally‐Delayed Infants and Mothers and Their Nondelayed Infants
Authors: Lieberman Deborah , Padan‐Belkin Efrat , Harel Shaul
Published: December 2006

Abstract Maternal directiveness and infant compliance at one year of age were observed in social interactions between mothers and their handicapped and nonhandicapped infants. Eleven nondelayed, typically developing infants, and nine developmentally delayed infants, matched for chronological age, were observed in a free play situation with their mothers. Mothers of the delayed infants attempted to direct their children's play significantly more than those with nondelayed infants, and they engaged more frequently in social play involving physical contact with their infants. Nondelayed infants complied with their mothers' directives more than the developmentally delayed infants. Further study of infant capabilities and maternal affect and behaviors with this age group is suggested.
Impulsivity and the Initiation of Fights in Children with Disruptive Behavior Disorders
Authors: Halperin Jeffrey M. , Newcorn Jeffrey H. , Matier Kristin , Bedi Gail , Hall Susan , Sharma Vanshdeep
Published: December 2006

Abstract This study examined whether children who initiate physical fights are impulsive as measured by a continuous performance test. A series of 111 7‐13‐year‐old psychiatric patients were diagnosed using DSM‐III‐R criteria and divided according to whether they showed a persistent pattern of initiating physical fights. Children who initiated fights were impulsive irrespective of whether ADHD was present or not, although ADHD was also associated with increased impulsivity. Oppositional‐defiant disorder and conduct disorder diagnoses were not associated with impulsivity. These findings are discussed in terms of an underlying impulsive personality trait and its possible relationship to outcome in children with disruptive behavior disorders.
The Development of Emotional Concepts in Autism
Authors: Bormann‐Kischkel Christiane , Vilsmeier Markus , Baude Beate
Published: December 2006

Abstract Forty‐one high‐functioning individuals with autism between the ages of 7 and 36 and an age and intelligence matched comparison group were investigated in their ability to recognise emotions in photographs. A colour identification task served as control condition. The autistic group was significantly impaired on the emotions task only. There was no substantial difference between groups in the structures underlying their emotional concepts (pleasantness and arousal). However, there is a trend for the autistic group to rely on other strategies in the recognition of emotions than the comparison group. These strategies may be insufficient in the appreciation of facial expressions.
Developmental Dyscalculia Behavioral and Attentional Aspects: A Research Note
Authors: Shalev R. S. , Auerbach J. , Gross‐Tsur V.
Published: December 2006

Abstract Behavioral characteristics of 140 children with developmental dyscalculia (DC) were evaluated using the Child Behavior Checklist. DC children demonstrated more behavior problems than normal children but significantly fewer problems than children psychiatrically referred. DC children had significantly more attentional problems although they had normal levels of anxiety/depression. Significantly higher scores on all syndrome scales were found for DC children who had attentional problems in the clinical range. When associated with dyslexia and a low verbal IQ, DC children had more attentional problems and externalizing syndromes. The implications of the behavioral characteristics of DC are discussed.
Children and Arithmetic
Authors: Bryant Peter
Published: December 2006

Abstract The development of children's understanding of mathematical relations and of their grasp of the number system is described. It is discussed that children easily recognise one‐way pan‐pan relations but that the number system at first causes them difficulty. Children's relational understanding allows them to solve addition and subtraction problems fairly well when these deal with simple increases and decreases in quantity. It also helps them to make proportional judgements when these involve part‐pan relations However, problems that involve relations between pans and wholes are at first extremely difficult The review also deals with the effects of context and shows the considerable aptitudes that are handed on to children in informal settings.
Individual Differences in Infancy and Later IQ
Authors: Slater Alan
Published: December 2006

Abstract In recent years it has been demonstrated that cognitive development from infancy to later childhood displays some degree of (correlational) continuity. Studies that have demonstrated this continuity are reviewed, focusing on measures of visual information processing, means‐ends problem‐solving and other cognitive indices of infant performance. Models of continuity are described and evaluated, and the relevance of the findings and models to the Nature‐Nurture issue are considered, with particular attention to the related issues of the role of experience I early life, and the extent to which infant development is canalized. Theoretical and practical applications of the research are discussed.
Sibling Resemblance for Psychiatric Disorders in Offspring at High and Low Risk for Depression
Authors: Rende Richard , Wickramaratne Priya , Warner Virginia , Weissman Myrna M.
Published: December 2006

AbstractThis study examined sibling resemblance for major depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, and conduct disorder, in offspring at high and low risk for depression by virtue of parental diagnosis. The sample, which ranged in age from 6 to 23 years, included 164 sibling pairs at high risk, and 68 sibling pairs at low risk. Each cohort was assessed at two waves separated by a 2‐year period. Sibling resemblance in the high risk cohort was substantially greater than resemblance in the low risk cohort for anxiety disorder (and comorbid conditions including anxiety disorder), but not depression. Discussion focused on the possibility that anxiety disorder may reflect the most pronounced familial influences common to siblings at high risk for depression.
Follow‐Up of Two‐Year‐Olds Referred for Possible Autism
Authors: Lord Catherine
Published: December 2006

Abstract Thirty, 2‐year‐old children referred for possible autism were evaluated using a parent interview, a rating scale and psychometric tests and reassessed one year later. Clinical diagnosis was relatively stable across time; diagnosis using the formal measures changed significantly, particularly for younger and more developmentally delayed children. Several patterns contributed to the increasing differentiation of children with autism from age 2 to 3, including the development of clearly recognizable, repetitive behaviors in the autistic children and significant improvements in basic social skills in the children judged not to be autistic.
The Identity of Mixed Parentage Adolescents
Authors: Tizard Barbara , Phoenix Ann
Published: December 2006

Abstract Theories about “black identity” are discussed in relation to a study of adolescents with one white and one African or African‐Caribbean parent. Interview findings on their racial self‐definition, attitudes to their mixed parentage, and allegiance to black and white people and cultures reveal a wide range of racial identities and cultural allegiances. Differences are related to type of school, social class, and the degree of politicisation of the young person's attitudes to race. The findings are discussed in relation to the issue of interracial adoption and fostering, and to recent debates about the concept of an “essential” black identity.
Self‐Reported and Parent Reported Problems in Adolescent International Adoptees
Authors: Versluis‐den Bieman Herma J. M. , Verhulst Frank C.
Published: December 2006

AbstractSelf‐reported and parent reported problem behaviors of1,538 intercountry adopted adolescents aged 14–18 years were compared with those from general population samples; 22% of the adopted boys, and 18% of the adopted girls could be regarded deviant according to self‐reports, compared with about 10% of the subjects from the general population. Parents reports showed a slightly greater difference between adopted versus nonadopted boys. Childhood deprivation was weakly associated with later parent reported, but not with self‐reported problems. Racial antagonism was not related to problem behaviors. Adolescence may constitute a period of increased vulnerability for adopted children.
Problem Behavior in Early and Middle Childhood: An Initial Behavior Genetic Analysis
Authors: Schmitz Stephanie , Fulker David W. , Mrazek David A.
Published: December 2006

Abstract Twin samples were used to estimate the relative importance of genetic and environmental influences on problem behavior in children, assessed by the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). For the younger cohort, mothers completed the CBCL/2–3, while for the older cohort the CBCL/4–18 was used. Nearly half of the older sample had also been assessed with the questionnaire for younger children at a prior date, providing tentative answers regarding continuity and change in the etiology of problem behavior. Results suggested that shared environmental influences may be more important in early childhood than in middle childhood, while the reverse holds for genetic influences.
Performance of Children with ADHD on the Rey‐Osterrieth Complex Figure: A Pilot Neuropsychological Study
Authors: Seidman Larry J. , Benedict Kenneth B. , Biederman Joseph , Bernstein Jane H. , Seiverd Kari , Milberger Sharon , Norman Dennis , Mick Eric , Faraone Stephen V.
Published: December 2006

Abstract This study evaluates the performance of boys with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) on the Rey‐Osterrieth Complex Figure (ROCF) taking into consideration familiality and comorbid psychiatric and learning disorders (LD). Sixty‐five children with ADHD performed at developmentally lower levels of Copy Organization and Recall Style than did 45 controls. ADHD children with LD scored significantly lower on Copy Organization than did ADHD children without LD, whereas psychiatric comorbidity and familiality had no effect. These results suggest that a developmental analysis of the ROCF identifies organizational difficulties associated with ADHD and that these impairments cannot simply be attributed to comorbidities associated with ADHD.
Debate and Argument: Reply to Dr Koelega: Is the Continuous Performance Task Useful in Research with ADHD Children? Comments on a Review
Authors: Corkum Penny , Siegel Linda
Published: December 2006

Abstract Dr Koelega seems to have issues with our opinions on articles to include, statistical methods to employ, the terminology used and the models proposed. However, on closer examination, it appears that we both have used similar statistical techniques to analyze vigilance data and have employed similar terminology and models. It is not surprising that we have arrived at similar conclusions. The main conclusion drawn in our review and Dr Koelega's response emphasizes the need for further research to investigate performance on cognitive measures of sustained attention. This research should focus on the manipulation of the factors which are felt to influence performance on tasks such as the CPT. In his review of extraversion and vigilance performance, Dr Koelega (1992) states “here also a trend was noted to move to new problems before solving old ones” (p. 239). We feel that this has occurred in research exploring sustained attention deficits in children with ADHD. We hope that Dr Koelega's comments and our response will encourage investigators in the field to continue to search for underlying deficits which are unique to children with ADHD, and that clinicians will be more cautious in using research based tools as diagnostic instruments.
The Incidence of Sleeping Problems in Preterm and Fullterm Infants Discharged from Neonatal Special Care Units: An Epidemiological Longitudinal Study
Authors: Wolke Dieter , Meyer Renate , Ohrt Barbara , Riegel Klaus
Published: December 2006

Abstract— Anecdotal reports have suggested that sleeping problems are a frequent complaint from parents of preterm infants. This prospective epidemiological study examined the incidence and stability of sleeping problems of very preterm (<32 weeks gestation at birth), preterm (32–36 weeks gestation) and fullterm infants, all admitted to special care baby units (SCBU) after birth, in comparison to healthy term infants over the first 5 years of life. Preterm infants were found to have fewer and shorter night‐wakings at 5 months. No differences in sleeping behaviour compared with healthy term children were found at 20 and 56 months of age. Similar significant, and moderate, stability of nightwaking from one age to the next were found for exSCBU‐graduates and healthy fullterm infants. Parental interventions such as staying the child until asleep and taking the infant into bed at night were related to nightwaking problems and increased parental distress. It is concluded that prematurity, and thus neurological immaturity and special care experience are less important than caretaking bf behaviour in the development of sleeping problems in both preterm and fullterm infants.
Hyperactivity: Prevalence and Relationship with Conduct Disorder
Authors: McArdle Paul , O'Brien Gregory , Kolvin Israel
Published: December 2006

Abstract— This paper reports the prevalence of situational and pervasive hyperactivity using different definitions of ‘caseness’, and explores the relationship between situational and pervasive hyperactivity and conduct disorder, using a large data base from the North of England. The prevalence of hyperactivity, and its relationship with conduct disorder, varied according to whether hyperactivity was pervasive or situational, according to the age of the child and to the definition of hyperactivity ‘caseness’. Among younger children only, school based situational and pervasive hyperactivity had comparable comorbidity with other available evidence of psychiatric disorder and hyperactivity was virtually a prerequisite for conduct disorder. Among older children, pervasive hyperactivity had greater comorbidity with other psychiatric disorder than situational hyperactivity and, furthermore, displayed the strongest links with conduct disorder.
Environmental Factors and Related Fluctuation of Symptoms in Children and Adolescents with Tourette's Disorder
Authors: Silva Raul R. , Munoz Dinohra M. , Barickman Julia , Friedhoff Arnold J.
Published: December 2006

Abstract— The purpose of this paper is to assess how 29 different environmental factors affected Tourette symptomatology in 14 children and adolescents (6.6–14.5 years; mean 10.3) who had never received any medication for their disorder. Assessment was based on patients' responses to the Tourette Syndrome (TS) Questionnaire. Eleven different factors were associated with a decrease in symptoms and included doctor visits, talking to friends, and reading for pleasure. The 10 factors reported to have no impact on Tourette symptomatology included various foods, weather, and living away from home. Seventeen factors associated with an increase in Tourette symptoms included events causing anxiety, emotional trauma, and social gatherings.
Properties of the Mood and Feelings Questionnaire in Adolescent Psychiatric Outpatients: A Research Note
Authors: Wood Alison , Kroll Leo , Moore Ann , Harrington Richard
Published: December 2006

Abstract— This study examined the psychometric properties of the Mood and Feelings Questionnaire (MFQ) in 104 adolescent outpatients unending a psychiatric clinic. The clinic offers a special assessment and treatment service for young people with depressive disorders. In this sample the self‐report version of the MFQ had acceptable reliability and was a satisfactory screen for major depressive disorder diagnosed by a standardised interview with the child. It was also a useful measure of clinical remission.
Somatisation in Children
Authors: Garralda M. Elena
Published: December 2006

This review summarises recent work on somatisation in childhood. Minor physiological dysfunction may play a part in a number of cases and associated psychiatric disorders are commonly though not universally found. Contributory family factors include high rates of health problems and of parental psychological distress and there is some evidence for the role of family modelling and reinforcement of illness behaviour. There is suggestive evidence linking somatisation to emotional closeness in families, to family togetherness around health matters and to anomalies in children's social relationships. Somatisation in children can respond to treatments involving cognitive–behavioural and family techniques as well as to sensitive, psychologically sound advice from paediatricians.
Epidemiology of Childhood Disorders in a Cross–Cultural Context
Authors: Bird Hector R.
Published: December 2006

The present report summarizes the epidemiologic research on childhood psychopathology that has been carried out in different cultural settings over the past 15 years from either an empirical or a diagnostic perspective. Prevalence and risk factor findings are summarized and contrasted. Some controversies surrounding cross–cultural research are discussed and methodological recommendations applicable to cross–cultural epidemiologic research are provided.
Can Children with Autism be Taught to Understand False Belief Using Computers?
Authors: Swettenham John
Published: December 2006

A specially designed computer version of the Sally‐Anne false belief task was used to teach understanding of false belief to three groups: children with autism, children with Down's Syndrome and young normal children. In an initial assessment children were selected for teaching only if they failed four false belief tasks: the dolls version of the Sally‐Anne task (close transfer task) and three other false belief tasks involving different scenarios (distant transfer tasks). Following teaching, all three groups were able to pass the Sally‐Anne task, but the children with autism alone were unable to pass the distant transfer tasks. The possibility that the children with autism had developed an alternative strategy in order to pass the instruction task is discussed.
Types of Dyslexia and the Shift to Dextrality
Authors: Annett Marian , Eglinton Elizabeth , Smythe Pamela
Published: December 2006

The prediction of the right shift theory that there are two types of dyslexia with different distributions of handedness was examined in a large cohort of school children. Dyslexics with poor phonology were less biased to dextrality than controls, while dyslexics without poor phonology tended to be more dextral than controls on measures of hand preference and hand skill. Relatives also differed for handedness, as expected if phonological dyslexics were less likely than nonphonological dyslexics and controls to carry the hypothesized rs + gene.
The Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children (DISC‐2.1) in Spanish: Reliability in a Hispanic Population
Authors: Ribera Julio C. , Canino Glorisa , Rubio‐Stipec Maritza , Bravo Milagros , Bauermeister José J. , Alegría Margarita , Woodbury Michel , Huertas Sara , Guevara Luz M. , Bird Héctor R. , Freeman Daniel , Shrout Patrick E.
Published: December 2006

The reliability across time, informants and interviewers of the Spanish translation of the DISC‐2.1 was tested on a Puerto Rican Hispanic sample using a test‐retest design. Levels of reliability between clinic ant) community samples and between younger and older children were compared to explore the sources of low reliability for certain psychiatric disorders. Parents’ reports tended to be mare reliable than those of their children, although the difference was less obvious with older children. Reliability was generally higher for the externalizing disorders and when the second interviewer was a psychiatrist rather than a lay interviewer.
Fears in American, Australian, Chinese, and Nigerian Children and Adolescents: A Cross‐Cultural Study
Authors: Ollendick Thomas H. , Yang Bin , King Neville J. , Dong Qi , Akande Adebowale
Published: December 2006

The fears of childhood and adolescence may differ from one cultural context to another. We explored this possibility in 1200 American. Australian. Chinese, and Nigerian children and adolescents between 7 and 17 years of age. Responses to a standard fear survey schedule revealed significant differences in the number, content, pattern, and level of fears. Nigerian children and adolescents endorsed fears at higher levels than American, Australian, or Chinese youth who did not differ from one another. However, differences in the pattern and content of fears for boys and girls of different ages were noted across the countries. Results were interpreted within a cultural context, which suggested that cultures which favor inhibition, compliance, and obedience serve to increase levels of fear. Alternative interpretations are offered and limitations of cross‐cultural research are explored.