Psychological disorder in children with learning disabilities

Background

Previous pilot studies at Penteli Children's Hospital (based on Achenbach children questionnaire, completed by parents) indicated that children with learning disabilities present secondary psychological problems (e.g. depression). At the present study we aim to extend and systematize the typology of psychological problems on a larger clinical population.

Material and Methods

The clinical sample consists of 100 children with learning disabilities from the age of 7 to 14 years old. As part of the clinical assessment, apart from Achenbach questionnaire, we provided children with the Beck personality questionnaire

Results

It was found that 26% of children have low self-concept,31% anxiety, 19% depression, 21% anger and 21% disruptive behavior.

Discussion

We can conclude that children with learning disabilities manifest vulnerability to psychological problems and especially anxiety disorder.