ABSTRACT

Difficulties in executive function are a relatively well-characterized feature of the neuropsychological profile in Down syndrome (DS), yet the impact of these challenges on aspects of daily functioning remain poorly understood. We examined the role of specific executive functions on domains of adaptive behavior in children and adolescents with DS. Participants included 68 children and adolescents with DS between 6–17 years old (mean chronological age = 12.56 years; SD = 3.22) and their caregivers. Parent reported executive function skills were measured using the BRIEF-2 and adaptive behavior was measured using the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales-III. Results identified working memory as a significant predictor of Communication, Daily Living, and Socialization skills, and Shifting significantly predicted Daily Living and Socialization. Findings demonstrate the relation between executive functions and adaptive behavior and highlight the effects of working memory on aspects of daily functioning for individuals with DS.

摘要

执行功能的困难是唐氏综合症 (DS) 神经心理学特征的一个相对明确的特征，但这些挑战对日常功能方面的影响仍然知之甚少。我们研究了特定执行功能在 DS 儿童和青少年适应性行为领域中的作用。参与者包括 68 名 6-17 岁（平均实际年龄 = 12.56 岁；SD = 3.22）的儿童和青少年及其照顾者。父母报告的执行功能技能使用BRIEF-2测量，适应性行为使用Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales-III测量。结果表明，工作记忆是沟通、日常生活和社交技能的重要预测因素，而转变显着预测了日常生活和社交能力。