J Korean Neuropsychiatr Assoc.  2006 Mar;45(2):160-164.

Comparisons of Temperamental and Sociodemographic Characteristics in Three Groups of Preschool Children with Delayed Language Development

• Jang WS
• Joung Y
• Kim JH
• Hong SD

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Temperamental and sociodemographic characteristics of developmentally delayed preschool children have not been adequately studied. This research compares temperamental and sociodemographic characteristics in 3 groups of preschool children: those with communication disorder (CD), those with mental retardation (MR), and those with pervasive developmental disorder (PDD).
METHODS
One hundred ninety eight preschool children (160 males, 38 females, average age 37.8 months) with delayed language development were included in this study. Developmental status of children was assessed by Bayley scales of infant development II, and temperamental characteristics were assessed by PTQ (Parental Temperamental Questionnaire). Sociodemographic characteristics of children were assessed with a questionnaire developed by us. Subjects were divided into three groups according to Bayley scale and Childhood autism rating scale (CARS).
RESULTS
CD groups showed higher scores on rhythmicity and persistence than MR and PDD groups. CD group showed lower scores on threshold of reaction than MR group. On intensity of reaction and quality of mood, CD group showed higher scores than the PDD group. Sociodemographic characteristics were not different among the 3 groups.
CONCLUSION
There are differences in temperamental characteristics but not in sociodemographic characteristics among CD, MR, and PDD.

Keyword

Temeperament; Communication disorder; Mental retardation; Pervasive developmental disorders

MeSH Terms

Autistic Disorder
Child
Child Development
Child, Preschool*
Communication Disorders
Female
Humans
Intellectual Disability
Language Development*
Male
Periodicity
Surveys and Questionnaires
Temperament*
Weights and Measures