Kids with Developmental Coordination Disorder at higher risk of mental health problems, IJP study

Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) is characterized by motor problems including significant difficulties in language, reading, arithmetic, and perceptual skills compared to their peers. Researchers Baskaran et al have now shown that these children with DCD are also at an increased risk of mental health difficulties as assessed by Health-related Quality of Life (HRQOL) scale used in their study that is now published in Indian Journal of Psychiatry.

Prevalence of DCD has been estimated to be 3.8% in 9–14-year- old children. Previous reports state that 58% of DCD adults aged around 22 years are suffering from anxiety and personality disorders. However, till date, very little is known concerning the impact on HRQOL in DCD children.

This study was conducted with 32 schoolchildren between ages 9–14 years, who were diagnosed with DCD. The Neuro QOL (filled by parents) is a sensitively designed tool used to assess the HRQOL in pediatric population; it consists of ten measures; eight targeted scales (anxiety, depression, anger, social interaction, fatigue, pain, cognition, and stigma); and two generic scales (upper and lower extremity function).