M L Rutter1, J M Kreppner, T G O'Connor. 1. Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Research Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College, London, UK. j.wickham@iop.kcl.ac.uk
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The sequelae of profound early privation are varied. AIMS: To delineate the behavioural patterns that are specifically associated with institutional privation. METHOD: A group of 165 children adopted from Romania before the age of 42 months were compared at 4 years and 6 years with 52 non-deprived UK children adopted in infancy. Dysfunction was assessed for seven domains of functioning. The groups were compared on which, and how many, domains were impaired. RESULTS: Attachment problems, inattention/overactivity, quasi-autistic features and cognitive impairment were associated with institutional privation, but emotional difficulties, poor peer relationships and conduct problems were not. Nevertheless, one-fifth of children who spent the longest time in institutions showed normal functioning. CONCLUSIONS: Attachment disorder behaviours, inattention/overactivity and quasi-autistic behaviour constitute institutional privation patterns.
BACKGROUND: The sequelae of profound early privation are varied. AIMS: To delineate the behavioural patterns that are specifically associated with institutional privation. METHOD: A group of 165 children adopted from Romania before the age of 42 months were compared at 4 years and 6 years with 52 non-deprived UK children adopted in infancy. Dysfunction was assessed for seven domains of functioning. The groups were compared on which, and how many, domains were impaired. RESULTS: Attachment problems, inattention/overactivity, quasi-autistic features and cognitive impairment were associated with institutional privation, but emotional difficulties, poor peer relationships and conduct problems were not. Nevertheless, one-fifth of children who spent the longest time in institutions showed normal functioning. CONCLUSIONS:Attachment disorder behaviours, inattention/overactivity and quasi-autistic behaviour constitute institutional privation patterns.
Authors: Kristen L Wiik; Michelle M Loman; Mark J Van Ryzin; Jeffrey M Armstrong; Marilyn J Essex; Seth D Pollak; Megan R Gunnar Journal: J Child Psychol Psychiatry Date: 2011-01 Impact factor: 8.982