bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of Reliability in Psychiatric Surveys of Children Aged 6–12
Authors: Fallon Theodore , Schwab‐Stone Mary
Published: December 2006

Abstract The reliability of young children's self reports of psychiatric information is a concern of epidemiologists and clinicians alike. This paper explores the determinants of test‐retest reliability in a sample of children from the general population using reliability coefficients constructed from a kappa statistic. Age, cognitive ability, and gender are related to consistency of reports in a test‐retest paradigm. Controlling for age, cognitive ability and gender, children report more reliably on observable behaviors, and less reliably on questions involving unspecified time, reflections of one's own thoughts, and comparison of themselves with others. The reliability of reports of emotions lies between these two extremes. Surprisingly, sentence length of up to 40 words and psychiatric impairment of the child as measured by the Child Global Assessment Scale did not influence reliability. As might be expected, parents' reports of their children are more reliable than their children's reports.
Childhood Experience of Care and Abuse (CECA): A Retrospective Interview Measure
Authors: Bifulco A. , Brown G. W. , Harris T. O.
Published: December 2006

Abstract The development of a retrospective, investigator‐based interview measure of Childhood Experience of Care and Abuse (CECA) used with two community samples of adults in London is described. The component ratings are shown to have satisfactory inter‐rater reliability and also validity as determined by agreement between sisters' independent accounts. The association between the different childhood scales is explored as well as the relationship of childhood experiences to adult depression. Methodological issues concerning investigator‐based versus respondent‐based measures of childhood are discussed and a case made for use of the former. Advantages of using the CECA, a retrospective, time‐based measure of childhood, are outlined.
Wechsler IQ Profile and Theory of Mind in Autism: A Research Note
Authors: Happé Francesca G. E.
Published: December 2006

Abstract The unusually uneven intelligence test profile found in autism has been consistently replicated. However, few psychological theories of autism give prominence to this feature. Nor is it clear how currently influential theories, such as the theory of mind account or the executive function hypothesis, can explain the marked peaks and troughs found in the performance of both high‐ and low‐functioning individuals with autism. The present study reports the pattern of Wechsler subtest results for subjects with autism who do or do not pass standard theory of mind tasks. The results suggest that while difficulty with the Comprehension subtest may reflect poor theory of mind, relative skill on the Block Design subtest is characteristic of subjects with autism regardless of theory of mind performance. Implications of this finding for the central coherence hypothesis are considered.
A Modified Version of the Rutter Parent Questionnaire Including Extra Items on Children's Strengths: A Research Note
Authors: Goodman Robert
Published: December 2006

Abstract An expanded version of the Rutter parent questionnaire was administered to 320 schoolchildren with hemiplegia. Scores and caseness categories derived from the original Rutter items corresponded well with the findings of independent psychiatric evaluations. A measure of prosocial behaviour derived from 10 novel items had promising internal consistency, factorial independence and inter‐rater reliability. Another six novel items loaded on the same factor as the three original Rutter hyperactivity items. The modified questionnaire may be useful with a wide range of children, particularly if the focus on children's strengths as well as weaknesses increases parental compliance and reduces halo effects.
Reading Attainment and Juvenile Delinquency
Authors: Williams Sheila , McGee Rob
Published: December 2006

Abstract Structural equation modelling was used with data from a longitudinal study of child development (N= 698) to examine relationships between early reading attainment and antisocial behaviour at ages 7 and 9 years and subsequent reading and delinquent behaviour in adolescence. While reading, analysed as a continuous variable, did not directly influence later delinquency, antisocial behaviour during the early school years was strongly predictive of delinquency at age 15 years. particularly for boys, and had a detrimental effect on reading. These findings were independent of social disadvantage, and were unchanged by adjusting reading scores for IQ. Reading disability at 9 years old, however, predicted conduct disorder at age l5 in boys.
Mother–Child Interactions and Noncompliance in Hyperactive Boys With And Without Conduct Problems
Authors: Gomez Rapson , Sanson† Ann V.
Published: December 2006

Abstract Mother–Child interaction, and parent ratings of child noncompliance and defiance among hyperactive boys with conduct problems (H/CP), hyperactive boys without conduct problems (H), and normal boys (N) were compared. Results indicated more negative groups. The H group was more noncompliant than normal children, but these groups showed no differences in defiance, nor in the behaviour of mothers. The implications of these findings in relation to the development of conduct problems in hyperactive children treatment and research are discussed.
Adjustment in Middle Childhood and Early Adolescence: Links with Earlier and Contemporary Sibling Relationships
Authors: Dunn Judy , Slomkowski Cheryl , Bcardsall Lynn , Rende Richard
Published: December 2006

Abstract The relation of individual differences in internalizing and externalizing behaviour in middle childhood and early adolescence to children's concurrent sibling relationships and their mothers' mood, and to their sibling and mother–child relationships in the preschool period was studied. Thirty‐nine younger and 39 older siblings observed at home in the preschool period were studied 5 and 7 years later. Differences in adjustment were related to contemporary sibling relationships and maternal mood, and to sibling and mother‐child interaction in the preschool period, even when mothers' current mood was taken into account.
Executive Function Abilities in Autism and Tourette Syndrome: An Information Processing Approach
Authors: Ozonoff Sally , Strayer David L. , McMahon William M. , Filloux Francis
Published: December 2006

Abstract— This study used information processing paradigms to provide a detailed examination of executive function abilities in autism. The performance of non‐retarded autistic children was compared with that of two matched control groups, one with Tourette Syndrome and the other developmentally normal. Autistic subjects performed as well as controls on tasks requiring global‐local processing and inhibition of neutral responses. In contrast to both control groups, however, the autistic sample was significantly impaired on a measure of cognitive flexibility. The performance of children with Tourette Syndrome did not differ from that of normal controls on any task. These results refine our knowledge about executive dysfunction in autism and suggest a new conceptual framework and general method for investigating the cognitive underpinnings of neurodevelopmental disorders.
Chronic Family Adversity and Early Child Behavior Problems: A Longitudinal Study of Low Income Families
Authors: Shaw Daniel S. , Vondra Joan I. , Hommerding Katherine Dowdell , Keenan Kate , Dunn Marija
Published: December 2006

Abstract— A beginning step in the prevention of child psychopathology is the identification of conditions associated with a disproportionately high incidence of behavior problems. Rutter and colleagues (British Journal of Psychiatry, 1975, 126, 493‐509) have reported a dramatic increase in the probability of child adjustment difficulties as a function of multiple family stressors. However, few investigators have tested this association beginning in infancy. The present investigation examines this relationship at the ages of 1 and 2 with behavioral adjustment at age 3 among 100 low‐income families. Broad support was found for the family adversity hypothesis, though sex differences were evident regarding individual correlates of problem behavior.
The Childhoods of Multiple Problem Adolescents: A 15‐Year Longitudinal Study
Authors: Fergusson David M. , Horwood L. John , Lynskey Michael
Published: December 2006

Abstract— This paper examines the life history of a small group of adolescents (3%) who were identified during the course of a longitudinal study of a birth cohort of New Zealand children as displaying multiple problem behaviours at the age of 15 years. This group was characterised by conduct disorder, police contact, substance abuse behaviours, early onset sexual activity, suicidal ideation, mood disorders and lowered self esteem. Statistical biographies of this group of young people showed that many were the offspring of seriously disadvantaged, dysfunctional and disorganised home environments. The implications of these findings for the understanding and treatment of multiple problem behaviours in adolescence are discussed.
Primary Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse: A Critical Review. Part II
Authors: MacMillan Harriet L. , MacMillan James H. , Offord David R. , Griffith Lauren , MacMillan Angus
Published: December 2006

This paper (Part II) and the previous paper (Part I) provide an overview of the primary prevention of child maltreatment. Part II focuses on the effectiveness of interventions aimed at the primary prevention of child sexual abuse. It includes prospective controlled trials published between January 1979 and May 1993. These studies were systematically identified and the quality of each trial was determined using criteria which assessed methodological rigor. Interventions aimed at the prevention of sexual abuse were classified into eight main categories based on the method of intervention. All programs had education as the primary focus. There is evidence that educational programs can improve safety skills and knowledge of children about sexual abuse but no study has produced data that education actually reduces the occurrence of sexual abuse.
Can Autistic Children Distinguish Lies from Jokes? A Second Look at Second‐order Belief Attribution
Authors: Leekam Susan R. , Prior Margot
Published: December 2006

Previous studies show that autistic children fail tests of second‐order belief attribution. They also fail tests of lying and deception. The present study used Leekam's (1988) joke‐lie distinction task to test (a) understanding of second‐order mental states (intention and belief) and (b) the ability to judge these acts as lies or jokes. Seventeen normal and 16 autistic children took part. Eight of the autistic children had previously passed a test of first‐order false belief. Results showed that six autistic subjects (37.5%), all of whom are false belief “passers”, gave consistently correct answers to second‐order mental state questions. Neither normal nor autistic children found second‐order intention easier than second‐order belief. However, normal children found the ability to judge another person's mental state easier than labelling whether the person was lying or joking, supporting previous evidence. In contrast, there was no difference in these two judgements for autistic children. Overall these results qualify previous evidence by showing that autistic children can use second‐order reasoning and can distinguish lies from jokes. Observational data on these children, however, suggest that their competence on the comprehension of these hypothetical situations was not matched by an ability to use lying and joking in real life. Methodological, language and diagnostic factors are discussed as providing possible explanations for the results.
Psychiatric Disorder in Deaf and Hearing Impaired Children and Young People: A Prevalence Study
Authors: Hindley Peter A. , Hill Peter D. , McGuigan Sean , Kitson Nick
Published: December 2006

Psychiatric screening questionnaires for deaf children and adolescents were piloted in a group of 62 children, aged 11‐16 years, attending a residential school. The questionnaires, Parent's Checklist (PCL) and Teacher's Checklist (TCL) were then used to screen a group of 93 children attending one Deaf School and three Hearing Impaired Units (HIU). Psychiatric assessments were conducted with a highly structured diagnostic interview, the Child Assessment Schedule (CAS). The interview with signing deaf children was conducted with a sign language interpreter. The prevalence of psychiatric disorder in the whole group was 50.3%, 42.4% in the group attending the Deaf School and 60.9% for the group attending the HIUs. An aetiological model of psychiatric disorder in this group is proposed.
Behaviour Problems and Pre‐school Intellectual Attainment: The Associations of Hyperactivity and Conduct problems
Authors: Sonuga‐Barke Edmund J. S. , Lamparelli Michael , Stevenson Jim , Thompson Margaret , Henry Ann
Published: December 2006

The relationship between behaviour problems and intelligence was examined in a sample of 106 three‐year‐old boys and girls selected for the presence of either conduct problems or hyperactivity. Parents' reports of hyperactivity, but not conduct problems, were negatively related to IQ, scores for both boys and girls. There was a significant sex difference in the association between conduct problems and IQ. For girls IQ was positively correlated with conduct problems. The implications of the results for existing models of the relationship between behavioural deviance and cognitive functioning in childhood is discussed.
Research Note: The Test‐Re test Stability of the Five Minute Speech Sample in Parents of Disadvantaged, Minority Children
Authors: McGuire Jacqueline Barnes , Earls Felton
Published: December 2006

The test‐retest stability of the Five Minute Speech Sample, a brief measure of Expressed Emotion (EE), was established in a community sample of predominantly low income, ethnic minority families with children aged from 3 to 14 years. Significant stability was established when Borderline responses were included in the scoring. There was some interchange between High‐EE and Borderline‐EE, but none of the time one Low‐EE respondent gave a second speech sample that included a higher level of EE. Both English and Spanish speaking subjects had stable scores.
The Significance of Self‐Reported Anxious Symptoms in First Grade Children: Prediction to Anxious Symptoms and Adaptive Functioning in Fifth Grade
Authors: Ialongo Nick , Edelsohn Gail , Werthamer‐Larsson Lisa , Crockett Lisa , Kellam Sheppard
Published: December 2006

Abstract In an earlier study of an epidemiologically defined sample of first grade children, primarily between die ages of 5 and 6, self‐reported anxious symptoms proved relatively stable and were significantly related to adaptive Functioning. In the present study we follow that cohort of first graders longitudinally and assess the prognostic value of self‐reports of anxious symptoms in first grade with respect to anxious symptoms and adaptive functioning in the late elementary school years or al about age 10. Fist grade anxious symptoms were found to have significant prognostic value in terms of levels of anxious symptoms and adaptive functioning in fifth grade.In an earlier study of an epidemiologically defined sample of first grade children, primarily between die ages of 5 and 6, self‐reported anxious symptoms proved relatively stable and were significantly related to adaptive Functioning. In the present study we follow that cohort of first graders longitudinally and assess the prognostic value of self‐reports of anxious symptoms in first grade with respect to anxious symptoms and adaptive functioning in the late elementary school years or al about age 10. Fist grade anxious symptoms were found to have significant prognostic value in terms of levels of anxious symptoms and adaptive functioning in fifth grade.In an earlier study of an epidemiologically defined sample of first grade children, primarily between die ages of 5 and 6, self‐reported anxious symptoms proved relatively stable and were significantly related to adaptive Functioning. In the present study we follow that cohort of first graders longitudinally and assess the prognostic value of self‐reports of anxious symptoms in first grade with respect to anxious symptoms and adaptive functioning in the late elementary school years or al about age 10. Fist grade anxious symptoms were found to have significant prognostic value in terms of levels of anxious symptoms and adaptive functioning in fifth grade.In an earlier study of an epidemiologically defined sample of first grade children, primarily between die ages of 5 and 6, self‐reported anxious symptoms proved relatively stable and were significantly related to adaptive Functioning. In the present study we follow that cohort of first graders longitudinally and assess the prognostic value of self‐reports of anxious symptoms in first grade with respect to anxious symptoms and adaptive functioning in the late elementary school years or al about age 10. Fist grade anxious symptoms were found to have significant prognostic value in terms of levels of anxious symptoms and adaptive functioning in fifth grade.
Emotional Role‐Taking Abilities of Children with a Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified
Authors: Serra Marike , Minderaa Ruud B. , van Geert Paul L. C. , Jackson Alexander E. , Althaus Monika , Til Riet
Published: December 2006

Abstract Seven to 12‐year‐old children with a Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDDNOS) were compared with normal, healthy children of the same age and sex on three different emotional role‐taking tasks. In these tasks, children had to use person‐specific information to make an inference about another child's emotional reaction and behaviour, Significant differences were found between the PDDNOS group and control group: PDDNOS children performed worse on all three role‐taking tasks. However, the differences on one of these tasks could be completely explained by intelligence differences between the two groups. On the other tasks, differences could not or be partially explained by intelligence differences. The results of this study led to the formulation of a more specific hypothesis, namely that PDDNOS children might have problems interpreting social information when affectively charged background information has to be used.
Contributing Factors in the Manifestation of Aggression in Preschoolers with Hyperactivity
Authors: Stormont‐Spurgin Melissa , Zentall Sydney S.
Published: December 2006

Abstract This study examined family characteristics of preschoolers with hyperactivity. We assessed child‐rearing practices, maternal depression, marital conflict, and social support. Sixty‐three preschool boys were placed in a hyperactivity‐aggressive, hyperactive, aggressive or comparison group based on behavioral ratings. Parents were given questionnaires, mothers were interviewed, and children were administered the Woodcock‐Johnson Psycho‐Educational Battery and were observed playing. Compared to preschoolers with hyperactivity, preschoolers with hyperactivity plus aggression, had families with (a) more restrictive Others, (b) siblings who retaliated aggressively, and (c) mothers who reported more physical aggression directed to their partners and more verbal aggression received. Follow‐forward aggression ratings were predicted by initial child manageability and maternal depression, perceived support, and low income.
The Sex Ratios of Families with a Neurodevelopmentally Disordered Child
Authors: Liederman Jacqueline , Flannery Kathleen A.
Published: December 2006

Abstract It has been conjectured that mothers who give birth to neurodevelopmentally disordered (ND) children may haw hormonal or immunological characteristics that bias them toward giving bind to male children. We examined this hypothesis in an epidemiological sample of 2,080 ND children drawn for the National Collaborative Perinatal Project (NCPP) who had one of nine kinds of NDs. No assumptions we re made regarding the sex ratio of non‐ND children since this could be computed from NCPP data for 11,213 families. The sex ratio of families with ND children was not significantly biased toward boys as compared to the sex ratio of families with non‐ND children, provided that the index ND child was excluded from the analysis.
Security of Attachment in 8–12‐Year‐Olds: A Revised Version of the Separation Anxiety Test, its Psychometric Properties and Clinical Interpretation
Authors: Wright John C. , Binney Valerie , Smith Peter K.
Published: December 2006

AbstractThis study examined the reliability and validity of an adapted version of the Separation Anxiety Test (SAT) for 8–12–year‐old children. Clinical (N= 21) and nonclinical (N= 21) participants were compared on responses to the SAT coded using the Seattle scoring indices. Inter‐rater reliability was established at an acceptable level, however, test‐retest reliability and internal test construction were less satisfactory. Sample comparisons found the clinical participants described themselves as less securely attached and more avoidant of emotional expression than the control participants. The indices of attachment security were also related to various socioemotional aspects of functioning. In addition, the results indicated that describing “self” as different from a similar “other” child was significantly related to parental reports of poor social competence. Results are discussed in relation to an Attachment Theory framework as well as from a clinical perspective.
Inter‐Rater Reliability of Global Assessment of Functioning in a Clinical Setting
Authors: Rey Joseph M. , Starling Jean , Wever Chris , Dossetor David R. , Plapp Jon M.
Published: December 2006

Abstract Four studies on the inter‐rater reliability of a proposed Axis V version for DSM‐I V and of the CGAS involving 162 child and adolescent patients and 20 clinicians showed moderate agreement (intraclass correlation: 0.53–0.66). This was comparable to previous versions of Axis V, but lower than that reported for the CGAS. More detailed description of anchor points did not increase reliability nor there were differences in agreement when rating current or previous functioning.
The Stability and Prediction of Fears in Chinese Children and Adolescents: A One‐Year Follow‐Up
Authors: Dong Qi , Xia Yong , Lin Lei , Yang Bin , Ollendick Thomas H.
Published: December 2006

Abstract The stability in number, level, content, and pattern of fears over a one‐year period was examined in Chinese children and adolescents aged 7–17. In addition, perceptions of fear in friends and parents as well as perceptions of the controllability and modifiability of fears were explored as predictors of subsequent fear level. Evidence for moderate stability of fears was obtained. However, stability was qualified by age and sex interaction effects. A developmental‐cultural hypothesis was put forth to account for those findings. Hierarchical regression analyses revealed that perceptions of fears in friends and parents, along with perceptions of the controllability and modifiability of fears, were predictive of fear level at follow‐up. Limitations of the study are noted.
Teacher Ratings of Children's Behaviors and Teachers' Management Styles: A Research Note
Authors: Vitaro Frank , Tremblay Richard E. , Gagnon Claude
Published: December 2006

Abstract The purpose of this study was to explore how changes in teacher ratings of children's behavior problems from kindergarten to first grade might vary with teachers' styles of managing behavior problems. Familial and socioeconomical variables were controlled because of their potential modulating effects. Subjects were from a community sample of 1,573 boys and girls rated by teachers, mothers and peers (for one part of the sample) on aggressiveness‐hyperactivity, anxiety‐withdrawal and social skills deficits. Teacher ratings of aggressive‐hyperactive behaviors significantly changed from kindergarten to grade one when the teachers had different management styles. Mother and peer ratings, however, did not change. The importance of considering teachers' management styles when assessing behavior problems in school is stressed.
Sibling Interaction of Children with Learning Disabilities: A Comparison of Autism and Down's Syndrome
Authors: Knott Fiona , Lewis Charlie , Williams Tim
Published: December 2006

Abstract Two potentially contrasting hypotheses can be generated about sibling interactions involving a child with Down's syndrome or autism. Research on siblings would predict that learning disabled children adopt responsive roles. Studies of children with autism would predict impoverished interactions. Home observations were conducted on 30 sibling pairs involving children with autism or Down's syndrome. Both hypotheses were partially supported. All learning disabled children engaged in frequent bouts of interaction, usually directed by their sibling. While children with autism engaged in fewer bouts and imitated less, they did reciprocate their siblings' initiations. Sibling encounters provide a unique opportunity for such children to learn about social relationships.
Family Functioning: A Correlate of Diabetic Control?
Authors: Gowers S. G. , Jones J. C. , Kiana S. , North C. D. , Price D. A.
Published: December 2006

Abstract Poor diabetic control was found in nearly 50% of adolescents attending two paediatric clinics. Adolescents with well and poorly controlled diabetes differed in reported parental involvement in their diabetic regime. There was little association between glycaemic control and family functioning using the McMaster Family Assessment Device (FAD) whether rated by adolescent or a parent. Neither did sufferers with diabetes differ from families of matched community controls according to the FAD overall though the families of well controlled diabetics were more likely than the other two groups to score themselves in the unhealthy range on the subscale of global functioning.
Supporting Fathers and Supported Mothers in Families with Disruptive Boys: Who are they?
Authors: Lavigueur Suzanne , Saucier Jean‐François , Tremblay Richard E.
Published: December 2006

Abstract What are the personal characteristics of supported mothers and supporting fathers, in the context of families having disruptive boys? The supportive and unsupportive behaviors of fathers towards mothers (N= 44) were rated by observers in standardized situations. Characteristics of both fathers and mothers were used to predict support: age, education, IQ, reported parental care during childhood, symptoms of distress and marital satisfaction. The joint characteristics of both spouses were better predictors than fathers' or mothers' characteristics alone. Unexpectedly more support and less stress correlated with more unfavorable characteristics of the father compared to the mother for the same marital dyad. Both spouses' reports on parental care were highly predictive of fathers' supportive and unsupportive behaviors towards mothers, whereas higher intellectual abilities of fathers predicted unsupportive behaviors. Results are discussed in relation to marital relations and differences between behavioral versus reported assessments of spouse support.
Child Testimonies During an Outbreak of Witch Hysteria: Sweden 1670–1671
Authors: Sjöberg Rickard L.
Published: December 2006

Abstract Eight hundred and nine testimonies given by children between the ages of 1 and 16 to the priests of the parish of Rättvik, and to the Royal commission of inquiry, during an outbreak of witch hysteria in 1670–71 are examined. The result implies that the capacity to separate reality from fantasy as well as the tendency to give stereotyped testimonies are related to age, social influence from other children and sex. The results also suggest that the testimonies were influenced by the person investigating the child.
Visuo‐Spatial Working Memory Limitations in Low Visuo‐Spatial High Verbal Intelligence Children
Authors: Cornoldi Cesare , Vecchia R. Dalla , Tressoldi P. E.
Published: December 2006

Abstract Visuo‐spatial working memory was investigated in a group of 37 children aged between 10 and 14 years with low visuo‐spatial intelligence. Their performance was poorer than that of a matched control group on a series of tests devised to ascertain visuo‐spatial working memory yet was broadly similar in a language test and in school achievement tests. It is argued that low visuo‐spatial intelligence children typically present limitations in the storage capacity of a passive system of the visuo‐spatial working memory (with a raw measure of four‐five stored elements) and especially in the operations required to process that information.
Self Esteem, Depression, Behaviour and Family Functioning in Sexually Abused Children
Authors: Stern Anne E. , Lynch Deborah L. , Oates R. Kim , O'Toole Brian I. , Cooney George
Published: December 2006

Abstract Eighty‐four sexually abused children and their families, were compared with controls to look at short‐term effects of sexual abuse. The abuse group had more marital breakdown, unemployment, communication problems within the family and poor maternal mental health. The abused children had more depression, low self‐esteem and behaviour disorder, There was no relationship between intrafamilial abuse and depression, self‐esteem or behaviour disorder. More severe abuse was related to low self‐esteem and children's negative perceptions of their mothers. In planning treatment the child's relationship to the perpetrator may need less emphasis, with more on self‐esteem, depression, family functioning and the child's perceptions of the family.
Validity and Neuropsychological Characterization of Asperger Syndrome: Convergence with Nonverbal Learning Disabilities Syndrome
Authors: Klin A. , Volkmar F. R. , Sparrow S. S. , Cicchetti D. V. , Rourke B. P.
Published: December 2006

Abstract The authors investigated the validity of Asperger Syndrome (AS) by comparing the neuropsychological profiles in this condition and Higher‐Functioning Autism (HFA). Diagnostic assignment followed a stringent procedure based on ICD‐10 research criteria for the two disorders. The groups had comparable age and Full Scale IQ distributions. The groups differed significantly in 11 neuropsychological areas. The profile obtained for individuals with AS coincided closely with a cluster of neuropsychological assets and deficits captured by the term nonverbal learning disabilities, suggesting an empirical distinction from HFA.
Large Group Community‐Based Parenting Programs for Families of Preschoolers at Risk for Disruptive Behaviour Disorders: Utilization, Cost Effectiveness, and Outcome
Authors: Cunningham Charles E. , Bremner Rebecca , Boyle Michael
Published: December 2006

AbstractA significant percentage of children with disruptive behaviour disorders do not receive mental health assistance. Utilization is lowest among groups whose children are at greatest risk. To increase the availability, accessibility, and cost efficacy of parent training programs, this prospective randomized trial compared a large group community‐based parent training program to a clinic‐based individual parent training (FT) program. All families of junior kindergartners in the Hamilton public and separate school boards were sent a checklist regarding problems at home. Those returning questionnaires above the 90th percentile were block randomly assigned to: (1) a 12–week clinic‐based individual parent training (Clinic/Individual), (2) a 12–week community‐based large group parent training (Community/Group), or (3) a waiting list control condition. Immigrant families, those using English as a second language, and parents of children with severe behaviour problems were significantly more liklely to enrol in Community/Groups than Clinic/Individual FT. Parents in Community/Groups reported greater improvements in behaviour problems at home and better maintenance of these gains at 6‐month follow‐up. A cost analysis showed that, with groups of 18 families, Community/Groups are more than six times as cost effective as Clinic/Individual programs.
Maternal Attachment Status, Psychosocial Stressors and Problem Behaviour: Follow‐Up After Parent Training Courses for Conduct Disorder
Authors: Routh Christina P. , Hill Jonathan W. , Steele Howard , Elliott Colin E. , Dewey M. E.
Published: December 2006

Abstract 37 Mothers of children with conduct disorder who had received Parent Management Training (PMT) were interviewed using the Adult Attachment Interview, 15–43 months after treatment. Child behaviour levels at follow‐up were strongly associated with the scores at referral in the unresolved attachment group, but not in the resolved group. This was reflected in a statistical interaction between referral behaviour score and resolved/unresolved attachment status in a regression model. This model, which also included a strong independent contribution from a composite psychosocial stress index, explained 66% of the variance in follow‐up behaviour scores. The implications of these results for predicting the outcome of PMT are discussed.
Parental Ratings of Behaviour Problems: A Twin and General Population Comparison
Authors: Gjone Helene , Nøvik Torunn S.
Published: December 2006

Abstract Generalization from twin studies relies on the assumption that liability to develop the disorder which is studied is influenced by similar factors in twins and singletons. The present study examines the impact of pre‐ and perinatal factors on parental reports of behaviour problems in 1832 twins, and compares level of attention problems, internalizing and externalizing behaviour in the twins with 723 children and adolescents from a general population sample. The modest influence of relative birth weight and birth order on level of attention problems in twins did not contribute to significant differences between twins and the general population sample. The levels of attention problems and externalizing behaviour was similar and there was a modest age dependent difference in internalizing behaviour. An increased variance was found for externalizing behaviour in twins.
Gender Differences in the Psychological Adjustment of Parents of Young, Developmentally Disabled Children
Authors: Trute Barry
Published: December 2006

Abstract Psychological distress, as expressed through symptoms of depression, was studied in a cross‐sectional sample of parents providing homecare to developmentally disabled children. Mothers and fathers were interviewed separately in 73 households. The intent of the study was to explore predictors of symptoms of depression to better understand what child, family and life circumstances might be differentially related to psychological stress in the cohorts of men and women. Hierarchical regression analyses showed similar levels of variance explained in depression of mothers (42%) and fathers (40%). Mothers with younger children, and fathers with male children, appeared to be at higher risk for depression. Personal or intra‐psychic coping resources (self esteem), and strong‐tie social support resources (spousal relationship) were found to be significant predictors of depression in both mothers and fathers. Informal respite resources were related to mothers’ well‐being.
Genetics and Children's Experiences in the Family
Authors: Plomin Robert
Published: December 2006

Abstract Genetic research may have its greatest impact for clinicians and developmental researchers in terms of understanding the environment and how the environment relates to children's development. This review focuses on one example al die interface between nature and nurture. Recent research using diverse genetic designs shows that family environment as it is currently assessed involves a substantial contribution from genetic factors. Genetic factors also contribute to correlations between measures of the family environment and developmental outcomes. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Behavior Problems in Preschool Children: A Review of Recent Research
Authors: Campbell Susan B.
Published: December 2006

Abstract Research on the prevalence, course, and correlates of behavior problems in preschool children was examined. Prospective epidemiological studies and follow‐Up studies of clinical/high risk samples indicate that serious externalizing problems identified early often persist Negative, inconsistent parental behavior and high levels of family adversity are associated with the emergence of problems in early childhood and predict their persistence in school age. Studies are examined from a developmental perspective and integrated with research on optimal parent–child relationships. The severity of initial problems and family context are related to different developmental outcomes.
The Impact of Postnatal Depression on Boys' Intellectual Development
Authors: Sharp Deborah , Hay Dale F. , Pawlby Susan , Schmücker Gesine , Allen Helen , Kumar R.
Published: December 2006

AbstractA follow‐up study was carried out to investigate the children of 204 mothers who had previously participated in a study of their mental health during pregnancy and the first postnatal year. One hundred and seventy two children, 170 mothers, and 99 fathers were assessed when the children were 3 years 10 months. Boys of mothers depressed in the first year postpartum scored approximately 1 standard deviation lower on standardised tests of intellectual attainment than boys whose mothers were well that year. The difference was reliable even when behaviour during the test was controlled for, and general behavioural problems, birth weight, parental IQ, measures of the family climate and home environment, mother‐child interaction, and breast‐feeding during infancy were taken into account.
Self‐Perceptions of Adolescents With and Without Mood Disorder: Content and Structure
Authors: Evans David W. , Brody Leslie , Noam Gil G.
Published: December 2006

Abstract This study compared the self‐perceptions of three groups of adolescents: one group with conduct disorder, a second group comorbid with both mood and conduct disorder, and a third group of normal controls. Results indicated that the three groups differed on several domains of self‐perception, with each group reporting perceived strengths and weaknesses. Second‐order principal component analyses revealed differences across groups in the structure of their self‐perceptions. Finally, regression analyses indicated that self‐perceptions share variance with a mixture of internalizing and externalizing symptoms. Results are discussed from a clinical‐developmental perspective.
Treating People as Objects, Agents, or “Subjects”: How Young Children With and Without Autism Make Requests
Authors: Phillips Wendy , Gómez Juan Carlos , Baron‐Cohen Simon , Laá Vicky , Rivière Angel
Published: December 2006

Abstract A procedure previously used to investigate imperative communication in non‐human primates was applied to young children, some of whom had autism. The goal was to examine closely how requests are made in a problem‐solving situation. Each child's spontaneous strategies to obtain an out‐of‐reach object were analyzed in terms of the ways in which he or she used the adult who was present. Results showed that fewer children with autism used a strategy of treating the person as a “subject”, and that more children with autism used object‐centred strategies.
New Reproductive Technology and the Family: The Parent‐Child Relationship Following in vitro Fertilization
Authors: Colpin Hilde , Demyttenaere Koen , Vandemeulebroecke Lieve
Published: December 2006

Abstract Parent‐child relationships and the parents' psychosocial functioning were assessed in families with a 24–30–month‐old, single born child conceived by homologous in vitro fertilization (IVF) and in a control group of families with a naturally conceived child. The investigation included behavioural observations of mother‐child interactions in the home, and self‐rated questionnaires. No significant multivariate group effects were found for indicators of the parent‐child relationship, nor for the parents' psychosocial functioning. However, in the case of IVF the employment status of the mother was associated with her behaviour towards her child: employed IVF‐mothers showed less respect for their child's autonomy compared with both nonemployed IVF‐mothers and employed control mothers.
Is the Continuous Performance Task Useful in Research with ADHD Children? Comments on a Review
Authors: Koelega Harry S.
Published: December 2006

Abstract A recent review of the Continuous Performance Task (CPT) as a research tool by Corkum and Siegel, Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 34, 1217–1239, 1993, is criticized for insufficient covering of the relevant literature, disregard of the question of differentiation among clinical groups, and inadequacy of explanations of Attention‐Deficit‐Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in terms of arousal, activation, and effort. An attention‐deficit in ADHD children cannot be inferred from poor performance on a CPT. Impaired performance is anything but specific to ADHD children and is caused by a host of variables among which “attention” probably plays a minor role.
Breaking the Intergenerational Cycle of Insecure Attachment: A Review of the Effects of Attachment‐Based Interventions on Maternal Sensitivity and Infant Security
Authors: van IJzendoorn Marinus H. , Juffer Femmie , Duyvesteyn Marja G. C.
Published: December 2006

Abstract— In this paper the effectiveness of preventive or therapeutic interventions aiming at enhancing parental sensitivity and children's attachment security is addressed, Sixteen pertinent studies have been reviewed, and 12 studies have been included in a quantitative meta‐analysis (N= 869). Results show that interventions are more effective in changing parental insensitivity (d=. 58) than in changing children's attachment insecurity (d=. 17). Longer, more intensive, and therapeutic interventions appear to be less effective than short‐term preventive interventions. Interventions which are effective at the behavioral level may not necessarily lead to changes in insecure mental representations of the parents involved. The implications of changes at the behavioral level (sensitivity; attachment) without accompanying changes at the representational level will be discussed.
Theory of Mind in Children with Autistic Disorder: Evidence of Developmental Progression and the Role of Verbal Ability
Authors: Sparrevohn Roslyn , Howie Pauline M.
Published: December 2006

Abstract— The present study investigated theory of mind in two groups of autistic children with markedly different verbal mental ages but comparable nonverbal ability and chronological ages, using a range of theory of mind belief tasks. The aims were to look for evidence of developmental progression of theory of mind ability in autistic children and to examine the role played by verbal ability in task performance. The results showed hierarchical patterns of performance across tasks, suggesting a developmental sequence of emerging aspects of theory of mind ability. There was clear evidence that verbal ability is an important contributor to successful task performance.
The Relationship between Cognitive Functions and Behavioral Deviance in Children At Risk for Psychopathology
Authors: Bergman Andrea J. , Walker Elaine
Published: December 2006

Abstract— Previous studies have generally found that children at risk for psychopathology (i.e. children characterized by risk factors such as parental psychopathology and maltreatment) display more deviant behavior and cognitive dysfunctions than children not at risk. The present study examined the relationship between behavioral deviance and cognition in children characterized by a variety of risk factors (parental schizophrenia, parental psychiatric disorders other than schizophrenia, parental maltreatment). The results indicated that the effects of parental schizophrenia could be distinguished from the more generalized effects of maltreatment and that cognitive deficits were associated with schizoid behavior in children at risk for schizophrenia. These findings suggest that cognitive ability may serve as a moderator of vulnerability to maladjustment in children at risk for schizophrenia.
Sleep in Adolescents with Primary Major Depression and Schizophrenia: A Pilot Study
Authors: Riemann Dieter , Kammerer Jutta , Löw Heidemarie , Schmidt Martin H.
Published: December 2006

Abstract— The present study aimed at investigating the question whether abnormalities of sleep, especially disinhibition of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, are already present in adolescents with primary major depressive disorder (MDD). Ten healthy controls assessed at home, 10 inpatients with MDD and 10 inpatients with schizophrenia (age range: 13–19 years) were investigated polysomnographically. REM latency was significantly shortened in MDD compared with the two other groups. Adolescents with MDD did not display disturbances of sleep continuity as typically observed in adults with major depression. The most pronounced impairment of sleep continuity was noted in schizophrenic patients. The results stress that shortened REM latency may already occur in adolescent depression.
Executive Functions and Developmental Psychopathology
Authors: Pennington Bruce F. , Ozonoff Sally
Published: December 2006

In this paper, we consider the domain of executive functions (EFs) and their possible role in developmental psychopathologies. We first consider general theoretical and measurement issues involved in studying EFs and then review studies of EFs in four developmental psychopathologies: attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), conduct disorder (CD), autism, and Tourette syndrome (TS).

Our review reveals that EF deficits are consistently found in both ADHD and autism but not in CD (without ADHD) or in TS. Moreover, both the severity and profile of EF deficits appears to differ across ADHD and autism. Molar EF deficits are more severe in the latter than the former. In the few studies of more specific EF tasks, there are impairments in motor inhibition in ADHD but not in autism, whereas there are impairments in verbal working memory in autism but not ADHD. We close with a discussion of implications for future research.
Autism: Towards an Integration of Clinical, Genetic, Neuropsychological, and Neurobiological Perspectives
Authors: Bailey Anthony , Phillips Wendy , Rutter Michael
Published: December 2006

Autism consitutes one of the best validated child psychiatric disorders. Empirical research has succeeded in delineating the key clinical phenomena, in demonstrating strong genetic influences on the underlying liability, and in identifying basic cognitive deficits. A range of neurobiological abnormalities has also been found, although the replicability of specific findings has not been high. An understanding of the causal processes leading to autism, and accounting for the marked variability in its manifestations, requires an integration across these different levels of enquiry. Although this is not yet possible, a partial integration provides a useful strategy for identifying key research questions, the limitations of existing hypotheses, and future research directions that are likely to prove fruitful. The research findings for each research level are critically reviewed in order to consider how to move towards an integration across levels.