Based on the first 13 reported cases, Wilroy et al. However, some parents, after observing their child's apparent helplessness to stop their own tantrums, question whether the unusual length and intensity of the tantrums might be an indication that the child has a diminished ability to self-calm once composure is lost. Tactile pressure, such as hugging, brushing, or the use of commercial weighted vests or blankets, has in some cases been successful in helping the child to calm and regain composure. It is encouraging for parents of young children to learn that in most cases the behavior problems common in Dubowitz syndrome improve significantly as the child approaches puberty. Language delay, both receptive and expressive, is frequently reported in the literature.
Receptive language is usually more severely impaired than expressive.
Receptive language impairment is present in patients with normal cognitive ability as well, and can hinder the child's ability to learn and function in a typical fast-paced classroom. Speech therapy is helpful in addressing speech and language problems in general, and strategies developed for central auditory processing disorder may help to circumvent receptive language deficits. In fact, many children with Dubowitz syndrome have also received a behavioral diagnosis of PDD or atypical autism . It is important to remember that autism and PDD are psychological diagnoses. While such a diagnosis may accurately describe the child's behavior, it does not speak to the fundamental cause of the child's disability.