Executive function is associated with behaviour problems in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy and intellectual disability.

Abstract

Background: Children and adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP) commonly have behaviour problems. The present study aimed to determine which of the most common clinical features experienced by children and adolescents with CP and intellectual disability are associated with behaviour problems.

Method: We investigated 11 possible associated variables including epilepsy, visual and hearing impairments, motor difficulties, communication and speech difficulties, pain, sleep disturbance, executive function (EF) deficits, type of CP, and parent stress. Thirty-eight parents or guardians of children aged 6 to 17 years with CP and intellectual disability (parent informed) completed proxy and self-report standardised questionnaires.

Results: EF deficits and parent stress were significantly associated with behavioural problems.

Conclusion: For children and adolescents with CP and intellectual disability, the present study suggests close attention should be placed on specific clinical features including EF deficits and parent stress when considering variables associated with behaviour problems.