Psychological Adjustment of Children with 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome: Insights for Practitioners

The study titled "Psychological Adjustment of Children and Adolescents with 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome and Their Mothers’ Stress and Coping—A Longitudinal Study" provides valuable insights for practitioners working with children who have 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome (22q11.2DS). The research highlights the importance of monitoring both the psychological adjustment of these children and the stress levels of their mothers. Here, we distill key findings and suggest actionable steps for improving outcomes based on the study's results.

Key Findings

The longitudinal study followed 55 children with 22q11.2DS and their mothers over four years. The research found:

• Significantly higher levels of behavior problems in children with 22q11.2DS compared to the general population.
• An increase in behavior problems, particularly internalizing issues, over time.
• Maternal stress levels did not significantly change over time, but mothers showed increased strain and reduced life satisfaction at follow-up.

Implications for Practitioners

Practitioners can take several steps to improve outcomes for children with 22q11.2DS and their families:

• Early and Continuous Monitoring: Regular assessments of both the child's behavior and the mother's stress levels are crucial. Use validated tools like the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and the Freiburger Personality Inventory-Revised (FPI-R).
• Interventions for Behavior Problems: Given the increase in behavior problems over time, early interventions, particularly for internalizing issues, are essential. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and social skills training can be beneficial.
• Support for Mothers: Providing resources and support to mothers can help mitigate stress and improve their coping strategies. Support groups, counseling, and stress management programs can be effective.
• Multidisciplinary Approach: A comprehensive care plan involving psychologists, speech-language pathologists, and other healthcare providers can address both somatic and psychological needs.

Encouraging Further Research

While this study provides important insights, further research is needed to explore effective interventions and support mechanisms for families affected by 22q11.2DS. Practitioners are encouraged to participate in or initiate research projects that can contribute to this growing field.

To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Psychological Adjustment of Children and Adolescents with 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome and Their Mothers’ Stress and Coping—A Longitudinal Study.