Pub Date : 2026-02-06DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105242
Salman Almughyiri
Research is limited on presenting optimal insights into the pain experiences of individuals with development disabilities (DD). Due to the group's insufficient communication skills, experts find it challenging to accurately assess pain. As a result, individuals with DDs often encounter the consequences of undiagnosed pain. A similar risk tends to increase in certain countries, particularly the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), considering the impact of distinct cultural and social characteristics that define pain experiences. This qualitative research, utilizing an exploratory research design and an interpretivist research philosophy, aims to critically examine pain experiences in individuals with DDs in Saudi Arabia. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 healthcare professionals, family caregivers, physiotherapists, and special education teachers. Important themes identified in the current research include diverse pain interpretations, the implications of persistent behavioral changes, challenges in identifying different types of pain, pain management as an ongoing, context-specific process, and systemic and cultural factors that determine pain management in individuals with DDs in KSA. A relevant aspect emerging in the study is associated with comprehending the varied nuances of pain experiences of individuals with DDs.
{"title":"Understanding pain experiences in individuals with developmental disabilities in Saudi Arabia: A qualitative interview study.","authors":"Salman Almughyiri","doi":"10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105242","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105242","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Research is limited on presenting optimal insights into the pain experiences of individuals with development disabilities (DD). Due to the group's insufficient communication skills, experts find it challenging to accurately assess pain. As a result, individuals with DDs often encounter the consequences of undiagnosed pain. A similar risk tends to increase in certain countries, particularly the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), considering the impact of distinct cultural and social characteristics that define pain experiences. This qualitative research, utilizing an exploratory research design and an interpretivist research philosophy, aims to critically examine pain experiences in individuals with DDs in Saudi Arabia. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 healthcare professionals, family caregivers, physiotherapists, and special education teachers. Important themes identified in the current research include diverse pain interpretations, the implications of persistent behavioral changes, challenges in identifying different types of pain, pain management as an ongoing, context-specific process, and systemic and cultural factors that determine pain management in individuals with DDs in KSA. A relevant aspect emerging in the study is associated with comprehending the varied nuances of pain experiences of individuals with DDs.</p>","PeriodicalId":51351,"journal":{"name":"Research in Developmental Disabilities","volume":"170 ","pages":"105242"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2026-02-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146137996","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-05DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105241
Anna Pyszkowska, Ari Nowacki, Natalia Dziura
Hyperfocus-an intense, uncontrollable state of attention-has gained attention for its dual adaptive and maladaptive outcomes and its potential role in gaming experience. Although distinguishing hyperfocus from flow during gameplay may be challenging, their predictive factors (e.g., escapism motivation) and consequences (e.g., burnout, self-efficacy) may differentiate the two constructs. However, the distinction between hyperfocus and flow in gaming contexts - particularly regarding their psychological outcomes and statistical predictors - remains insufficiently understood. The aims of this study were to a) establish possible differences in hyperfocus and flow as potential predictors of negative (cognitive, emotional burnout) and positive (self-efficacy) psychological outcomes among adult video gamers with ADHD traits, and b) compare these outcomes between individuals with a formal ADHD diagnosis and with an ADHD self-diagnosis. Data from 310 participants with ADHD traits were analyzed. First, an exploratory correlation analysis was conducted. Then, the relationships between hyperfocus, flow, escapism motivation, self-efficacy, and burnout were compared between persons with a formal ADHD diagnosis (N = 174) and self-diagnosis (N = 136) using the Mann-Whitney test, network analysis, and two PLS-SEM models. Flow and hyperfocus differed in both predictors and outcomes, with flow associated with greater self-efficacy and hyperfocus predicting higher burnout. Group comparisons indicated complex patterns: self-suppression escapism predicted flow only in the self-diagnosis group, while also predicting hyperfocus in both groups. Hyperfocus and flow emerge as qualitatively distinct states with different predictors and consequences. Furthermore, systematic differences between formally diagnosed and self-diagnosed individuals with ADHD traits underscore the necessity of distinguishing these subgroups in research on ADHD-related experiences.
{"title":"Game on but pay the price: Hyperfocus, flow, escapism, self-efficacy, and burnout among video gamers with ADHD traits.","authors":"Anna Pyszkowska, Ari Nowacki, Natalia Dziura","doi":"10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105241","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105241","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Hyperfocus-an intense, uncontrollable state of attention-has gained attention for its dual adaptive and maladaptive outcomes and its potential role in gaming experience. Although distinguishing hyperfocus from flow during gameplay may be challenging, their predictive factors (e.g., escapism motivation) and consequences (e.g., burnout, self-efficacy) may differentiate the two constructs. However, the distinction between hyperfocus and flow in gaming contexts - particularly regarding their psychological outcomes and statistical predictors - remains insufficiently understood. The aims of this study were to a) establish possible differences in hyperfocus and flow as potential predictors of negative (cognitive, emotional burnout) and positive (self-efficacy) psychological outcomes among adult video gamers with ADHD traits, and b) compare these outcomes between individuals with a formal ADHD diagnosis and with an ADHD self-diagnosis. Data from 310 participants with ADHD traits were analyzed. First, an exploratory correlation analysis was conducted. Then, the relationships between hyperfocus, flow, escapism motivation, self-efficacy, and burnout were compared between persons with a formal ADHD diagnosis (N = 174) and self-diagnosis (N = 136) using the Mann-Whitney test, network analysis, and two PLS-SEM models. Flow and hyperfocus differed in both predictors and outcomes, with flow associated with greater self-efficacy and hyperfocus predicting higher burnout. Group comparisons indicated complex patterns: self-suppression escapism predicted flow only in the self-diagnosis group, while also predicting hyperfocus in both groups. Hyperfocus and flow emerge as qualitatively distinct states with different predictors and consequences. Furthermore, systematic differences between formally diagnosed and self-diagnosed individuals with ADHD traits underscore the necessity of distinguishing these subgroups in research on ADHD-related experiences.</p>","PeriodicalId":51351,"journal":{"name":"Research in Developmental Disabilities","volume":"170 ","pages":"105241"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2026-02-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146133696","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-03DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105231
Ali N. Alasmari, Hussain A. Almalky
People with disabilities (PWDs) encounter numerous barriers that hinder their access to employment. This study examined perceived barriers related to (a) human resource (HR) practices and legislation, (b) employers’ and employees’ perceptions, and (c) workplace accommodations in Saudi Arabia. The study also investigated whether perceived barriers differed according to institutional characteristics, including employment sector, institutional age, public versus private status, current employment of PWDs, and Mowaamah certification status. Data were collected through a survey completed by employers and HR professionals (n = 86) across various regions of Saudi Arabia. The findings indicated that the most significant barriers were limited knowledge regarding how to provide appropriate assistance and resources to PWDs, as well as a shortage of PWDs applying for available positions. Conversely, the least significant barrier was the perception that PWDs cause disruptions in the workplace. Group comparisons revealed that perceived barriers were higher in newer institutions than in older ones, higher in institutions that did not currently employ PWDs, and lower in institutions that had obtained Mowaamah certification. These findings highlight the need for increased awareness of employment barriers facing PWDs. The study also identifies directions for future research, including the use of qualitative and mixed-methods approaches to further understand and address barriers to employing PWDs in Saudi Arabia.
{"title":"Employment barriers for people with disabilities in Saudi Arabia","authors":"Ali N. Alasmari, Hussain A. Almalky","doi":"10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105231","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105231","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>People with disabilities (PWDs) encounter numerous barriers that hinder their access to employment. This study examined perceived barriers related to (a) human resource (HR) practices and legislation, (b) employers’ and employees’ perceptions, and (c) workplace accommodations in Saudi Arabia. The study also investigated whether perceived barriers differed according to institutional characteristics, including employment sector, institutional age, public versus private status, current employment of PWDs, and Mowaamah certification status. Data were collected through a survey completed by employers and HR professionals (n = 86) across various regions of Saudi Arabia. The findings indicated that the most significant barriers were limited knowledge regarding how to provide appropriate assistance and resources to PWDs, as well as a shortage of PWDs applying for available positions. Conversely, the least significant barrier was the perception that PWDs cause disruptions in the workplace. Group comparisons revealed that perceived barriers were higher in newer institutions than in older ones, higher in institutions that did not currently employ PWDs, and lower in institutions that had obtained Mowaamah certification. These findings highlight the need for increased awareness of employment barriers facing PWDs. The study also identifies directions for future research, including the use of qualitative and mixed-methods approaches to further understand and address barriers to employing PWDs in Saudi Arabia.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51351,"journal":{"name":"Research in Developmental Disabilities","volume":"170 ","pages":"Article 105231"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2026-02-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146098657","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-03DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2025.105205
Dania Bint Abdullah Bin Saud Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud
Background: Down syndrome (DS) is associated with lifelong challenges across cognitive, physical, and social domains that can impact quality of life (QoL). Despite research evidence supporting the benefits of recreational and entertainment-based rehabilitation, such programmes remain underdeveloped in the Middle East. This study examined cultural appropriateness, and impact of a camp-based entertainment rehabilitation programme for young people with DS in Saudi Arabia.
Methods: This study was implemented with 11 participants (aged 17-23 years) attending an 11-day residential camp in Al-Baha. The adapted Quality-of-Life Questionnaire for Persons with DS was administered at baseline (T1), post-intervention (T2), and 8-week follow-up (T3). Qualitative data was also captured to gain understanding about participant and parent lived experiences.
Results: Significant improvements were observed across all QoL domains between T1 and T2 with gains maintained at T3. Qualitative findings revealed enhanced independence, self-confidence, social engagement, and parental relief. Participants expressed joy and belonging, while parents reported reduced stress and increased optimism.
Conclusions: Findings from this study demonstrate that entertainment-based rehabilitation can be effective in enhancing QoL among young people with DS within a culturally grounded Saudi context. This pilot study highlights the potential of leisure-focused rehabilitation to promote inclusion, family well-being, and social participation, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030's Quality of Life goals.
{"title":"Camp-based entertainment rehabilitation for young people with down syndrome in Saudi Arabia.","authors":"Dania Bint Abdullah Bin Saud Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud","doi":"10.1016/j.ridd.2025.105205","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ridd.2025.105205","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Down syndrome (DS) is associated with lifelong challenges across cognitive, physical, and social domains that can impact quality of life (QoL). Despite research evidence supporting the benefits of recreational and entertainment-based rehabilitation, such programmes remain underdeveloped in the Middle East. This study examined cultural appropriateness, and impact of a camp-based entertainment rehabilitation programme for young people with DS in Saudi Arabia.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This study was implemented with 11 participants (aged 17-23 years) attending an 11-day residential camp in Al-Baha. The adapted Quality-of-Life Questionnaire for Persons with DS was administered at baseline (T1), post-intervention (T2), and 8-week follow-up (T3). Qualitative data was also captured to gain understanding about participant and parent lived experiences.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Significant improvements were observed across all QoL domains between T1 and T2 with gains maintained at T3. Qualitative findings revealed enhanced independence, self-confidence, social engagement, and parental relief. Participants expressed joy and belonging, while parents reported reduced stress and increased optimism.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Findings from this study demonstrate that entertainment-based rehabilitation can be effective in enhancing QoL among young people with DS within a culturally grounded Saudi context. This pilot study highlights the potential of leisure-focused rehabilitation to promote inclusion, family well-being, and social participation, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030's Quality of Life goals.</p>","PeriodicalId":51351,"journal":{"name":"Research in Developmental Disabilities","volume":"170 ","pages":"105205"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2026-02-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146121047","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-01DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105228
G.H. Alnahdi , A. Alwadei , S. Schwab
There is a scarcity of validated scales designed to assess self-determination among students with disabilities. This study evaluates the Self-Determination Screening Scale for Adolescents with Disabilities (SDSS-AR) within the Arab context and applies Multitrait–Multimethod analysis to assess its validity for different informant versions (students, families, and teachers), with a total sample size of 508 covering all three versions. The results support convergent and discriminant validity and establish SDSS-AR as a reliable measure. By offering insights from various perspectives, this study validates a culturally adapted tool that significantly contributes to empowering Arab students with disabilities to successfully achieve societal integration. Moreover, this study highlights the important role played by culturally relevant, multidimensional assessment tools in enhancing educational and psychological practices.
{"title":"Validation of the Arabic version of the Self-Determination Screening Scale: A Multitrait–Multimethod analysis","authors":"G.H. Alnahdi , A. Alwadei , S. Schwab","doi":"10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105228","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105228","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>There is a scarcity of validated scales designed to assess self-determination among students with disabilities. This study evaluates the Self-Determination Screening Scale for Adolescents with Disabilities (SDSS-AR) within the Arab context and applies Multitrait–Multimethod analysis to assess its validity for different informant versions (students, families, and teachers), with a total sample size of 508 covering all three versions. The results support convergent and discriminant validity and establish SDSS-AR as a reliable measure. By offering insights from various perspectives, this study validates a culturally adapted tool that significantly contributes to empowering Arab students with disabilities to successfully achieve societal integration. Moreover, this study highlights the important role played by culturally relevant, multidimensional assessment tools in enhancing educational and psychological practices.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51351,"journal":{"name":"Research in Developmental Disabilities","volume":"169 ","pages":"Article 105228"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146068290","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-01DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105239
Line Britt Ulriksen , Marthe Bilet-Mossige , Kenneth Larsen , Anders Nordahl-Hansen
Purpose
This study examined the associations between receptive and expressive vocabulary and early literacy skills (i.e., phonological awareness and letter-sound knowledge) among 39 students aged 6–14 years with intellectual disabilities, autism, and/or Down syndrome who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Receptive and expressive vocabulary are identified as a key risk factor for developing reading skills in students with intellectual disabilities who use AAC.
Methods
Spearman’s correlation analyses and generalized linear models were conducted throughout this non-experimental investigation to examine the association between receptive and expressive vocabulary, phonological awareness (sound blending and initial sound recognition), and letter-sound knowledge.
Results
Findings revealed a significant correlation between expressive vocabulary (i.e., words children can use in speech) and both letter-sound knowledge and sound blending, contrary to prior research. Additionally, students’ receptive and expressive vocabulary showed no correlation with their early literacy skills. Binomial Generalized Linear Models (mixed-effects models) highlighted the importance of receptive vocabulary in early literacy development. Furthermore, looking at the differences within the sample, students with autism and intellectual disability requiring AAC had a higher negative probability of maximum scores in early literacy skills.
Conclusions
These findings deepen understanding of how the correlations between receptive and expressive vocabulary relate to early literacy skills. This may contribute to more targeted interventions and provide implications for practitioners and their teaching within receptive and expressive vocabulary and early literacy components, which will benefit this population in further reading development.
{"title":"Associations between receptive and expressive vocabulary and early literacy in young students with intellectual disabilities using AAC","authors":"Line Britt Ulriksen , Marthe Bilet-Mossige , Kenneth Larsen , Anders Nordahl-Hansen","doi":"10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105239","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105239","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>This study examined the associations between receptive and expressive vocabulary and early literacy skills (i.e., phonological awareness and letter-sound knowledge) among 39 students aged 6–14 years with intellectual disabilities, autism, and/or Down syndrome who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Receptive and expressive vocabulary are identified as a key risk factor for developing reading skills in students with intellectual disabilities who use AAC.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Spearman’s correlation analyses and generalized linear models were conducted throughout this non-experimental investigation to examine the association between receptive and expressive vocabulary, phonological awareness (sound blending and initial sound recognition), and letter-sound knowledge.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Findings revealed a significant correlation between expressive vocabulary (i.e., words children can use in speech) and both letter-sound knowledge and sound blending, contrary to prior research. Additionally, students’ receptive and expressive vocabulary showed no correlation with their early literacy skills. Binomial Generalized Linear Models (mixed-effects models) highlighted the importance of receptive vocabulary in early literacy development. Furthermore, looking at the differences within the sample, students with autism and intellectual disability requiring AAC had a higher negative probability of maximum scores in early literacy skills.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>These findings deepen understanding of how the correlations between receptive and expressive vocabulary relate to early literacy skills. This may contribute to more targeted interventions and provide implications for practitioners and their teaching within receptive and expressive vocabulary and early literacy components, which will benefit this population in further reading development.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51351,"journal":{"name":"Research in Developmental Disabilities","volume":"169 ","pages":"Article 105239"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146078193","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-01DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105236
Tania Kalaitzi , Pavlos Kitixis , Dimitrios Zafeiriou , Ioannis Poulis , George Paras
Background
Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) is a multifactorial motor disorder that significantly impacts a child’s activities of daily living and academic skills. Identifying signs of DCD early is essential to enable timely support and reduce the risk of long-term difficulties.
Aims
This cross-sectional study aimed to further investigate the psychometric properties of the Greek version of the Little Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire (LDCDQ) by carrying out appropriate analyses in a convenience sample of 3- to 5- year old children in Greece.
Methods
A total of 362 preschool children aged 3–5 years old from 39 municipal kindergartens in Thessaloniki, Greece participated in this study. Parents filled out the Greek LDCDQ. Internal consistency of the LDCDQ-GR was determined by Cronbach’s alpha. Construct validity was investigated using factor analysis
Results
Internal consistency of the LDCDQ-GR was 0.88. Factor analysis resulted in three factors (Locomotor, Fine motor and General Coordination skills). No effects of age (H(2) = 3.93, p = 0.14, η2 = 0.005) and gender (H(1) = 2.75, p = 0.09, η2 = 0.005) were depicted for the LDCDQ-GR final score.
Conclusion
LDCDQ-GR appears to be a reliable and well-structured questionnaire for identifying preschool-aged (3–5 years old) children in Greece who may be at risk for DCD.
{"title":"Preliminary psychometric evaluation of the Greek little developmental coordination disorder questionnaire (LDCDQ-GR)","authors":"Tania Kalaitzi , Pavlos Kitixis , Dimitrios Zafeiriou , Ioannis Poulis , George Paras","doi":"10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105236","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105236","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) is a multifactorial motor disorder that significantly impacts a child’s activities of daily living and academic skills. Identifying signs of DCD early is essential to enable timely support and reduce the risk of long-term difficulties.</div></div><div><h3>Aims</h3><div>This cross-sectional study aimed to further investigate the psychometric properties of the Greek version of the Little Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire (LDCDQ) by carrying out appropriate analyses in a convenience sample of 3- to 5- year old children in Greece.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A total of 362 preschool children aged 3–5 years old from 39 municipal kindergartens in Thessaloniki, Greece participated in this study. Parents filled out the Greek LDCDQ. Internal consistency of the LDCDQ-GR was determined by Cronbach’s alpha. Construct validity was investigated using factor analysis</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Internal consistency of the LDCDQ-GR was 0.88. Factor analysis resulted in three factors (Locomotor, Fine motor and General Coordination skills). No effects of age (H(2) = 3.93, p = 0.14, η<sup>2</sup> = 0.005) and gender (H(1) = 2.75, p = 0.09, η<sup>2</sup> = 0.005) were depicted for the LDCDQ-GR final score.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>LDCDQ-GR appears to be a reliable and well-structured questionnaire for identifying preschool-aged (3–5 years old) children in Greece who may be at risk for DCD.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51351,"journal":{"name":"Research in Developmental Disabilities","volume":"169 ","pages":"Article 105236"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146078194","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-01DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105238
Ilse Margot van Rijssen , Sanne Rodenburg , Mattijs Alsem , Raquel Hulst , Jan Willem Gorter , Irene Oude Lansink , Ludo van der Pol , Esther Veldhoen , Olaf Verschuren
Sleep-disordered breathing in children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is well recognized, yet little is known about everyday, non-respiratory sleep problems and their impact on caregivers. The purpose of this study is to describe the caregiver-reported frequency and type of sleep problems in children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and to evaluate the sleep satisfaction of their child and their own sleep. Furthermore, we assessed the relationship between child and caregiver sleep. Finally, we compared sleep outcomes of children with SMA to that of typically developing (TD) children and their caregivers. Fifty-one children with SMA (age range: 0–16), 287 TD children (age range: 0–16) and their caregivers participated in this cross-sectional, exploratory observational questionnaire study. Night-time waking, snoring, pain or discomfort and daytime fatigue were more common in children with SMA. Caregivers of children with SMA were less satisfied about their child’s and own sleep, and more often reported feeling sleep deprived. We recommend regular assessment of sleep in children with SMA and their families in pediatric healthcare practice.
{"title":"Sleep in children with spinal muscular atrophy and their caregivers: Exploring sleep problems and the need for care","authors":"Ilse Margot van Rijssen , Sanne Rodenburg , Mattijs Alsem , Raquel Hulst , Jan Willem Gorter , Irene Oude Lansink , Ludo van der Pol , Esther Veldhoen , Olaf Verschuren","doi":"10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105238","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105238","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Sleep-disordered breathing in children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is well recognized, yet little is known about everyday, non-respiratory sleep problems and their impact on caregivers. The purpose of this study is to describe the caregiver-reported frequency and type of sleep problems in children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and to evaluate the sleep satisfaction of their child and their own sleep. Furthermore, we assessed the relationship between child and caregiver sleep. Finally, we compared sleep outcomes of children with SMA to that of typically developing (TD) children and their caregivers. Fifty-one children with SMA (age range: 0–16), 287 TD children (age range: 0–16) and their caregivers participated in this cross-sectional, exploratory observational questionnaire study. Night-time waking, snoring, pain or discomfort and daytime fatigue were more common in children with SMA. Caregivers of children with SMA were less satisfied about their child’s and own sleep, and more often reported feeling sleep deprived. We recommend regular assessment of sleep in children with SMA and their families in pediatric healthcare practice.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51351,"journal":{"name":"Research in Developmental Disabilities","volume":"169 ","pages":"Article 105238"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146078191","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-01DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105237
Rosa Angela Fabio , Giulia Picciotto
Objective
This systematic review aims to evaluate the association between social media use (SMU) and ADHD-related outcomes—primarily inattention and impulsivity—among adolescents aged 10–19 years.
Methods
A systematic literature search was conducted across PsycINFO, Scopus, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase in June 2025. Search terms included: ("social media" OR "social network" OR "social networking site" OR Instagram OR TikTok OR Facebook) AND (adolescen* OR teen* OR youth) AND (ADHD OR "attention deficit" OR inattention OR impulsivit* OR hyperactiv*). Eligible studies included both general population samples and adolescents diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Filters were applied to include articles published in English between 2015 and 2025. Although a formal risk of bias assessment was not conducted, study characteristics and methodological variability were qualitatively evaluated.
Results
Twenty-five studies met the inclusion criteria and were synthesized. Across both clinical and non-clinical samples, most studies reported a significant association between problematic social media use and ADHD-related traits or symptoms, particularly inattention. Evidence for associations with impulsivity was also observed, whereas findings related to hyperactivity were less consistent and less frequently examined. However, considerable heterogeneity in study design, measurement tools, and operationalization of SMU limited direct comparability and synthesis.
Conclusion
Problematic social media use appears to be associated with increased inattention- and impulsivity-related outcomes in adolescents. While current evidence suggests a meaningful link, the predominance of cross-sectional designs limits conclusions about directionality. Future research should adopt longitudinal and experimental approaches, employ standardized and conceptually precise measures of social media use, and clarify the role of specific ADHD dimensions.
{"title":"The relationship between social media use and adolescent inattention and impulsivity: A systematic review","authors":"Rosa Angela Fabio , Giulia Picciotto","doi":"10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105237","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105237","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>This systematic review aims to evaluate the association between social media use (SMU) and ADHD-related outcomes—primarily inattention and impulsivity—among adolescents aged 10–19 years.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A systematic literature search was conducted across PsycINFO, Scopus, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase in June 2025. Search terms included: (\"social media\" OR \"social network\" OR \"social networking site\" OR Instagram OR TikTok OR Facebook) AND (adolescen* OR teen* OR youth) AND (ADHD OR \"attention deficit\" OR inattention OR impulsivit* OR hyperactiv*). Eligible studies included both general population samples and adolescents diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Filters were applied to include articles published in English between 2015 and 2025. Although a formal risk of bias assessment was not conducted, study characteristics and methodological variability were qualitatively evaluated.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Twenty-five studies met the inclusion criteria and were synthesized. Across both clinical and non-clinical samples, most studies reported a significant association between problematic social media use and ADHD-related traits or symptoms, particularly inattention. Evidence for associations with impulsivity was also observed, whereas findings related to hyperactivity were less consistent and less frequently examined. However, considerable heterogeneity in study design, measurement tools, and operationalization of SMU limited direct comparability and synthesis.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Problematic social media use appears to be associated with increased inattention- and impulsivity-related outcomes in adolescents. While current evidence suggests a meaningful link, the predominance of cross-sectional designs limits conclusions about directionality. Future research should adopt longitudinal and experimental approaches, employ standardized and conceptually precise measures of social media use, and clarify the role of specific ADHD dimensions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51351,"journal":{"name":"Research in Developmental Disabilities","volume":"169 ","pages":"Article 105237"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146078192","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-01DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105222
Parisa Ghanouni, Paige Kavanaugh
Introduction
The transition to adulthood presents specific challenges for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their parents, particularly in navigating healthcare systems and adapting routines. Despite the importance of this transition, effectively navigating the healthcare system remains difficult and there is limited information specifically on healthcare navigation. This study aims to address this gap by exploring the experiences of stakeholders to gain a comprehensive understanding and identify crucial components for successfully navigating healthcare systems.
Methods
In-depth interviews were conducted with 20 participants, including 6 youth with ASD, 10 parents of youth with ASD, and 4 service providers from Canadian provinces. The interviews were analyzed thematically to extract meaningful insights.
Results
Thematic analysis revealed three main themes essential to navigating the healthcare system: (a) information sharing, emphasizing the significance of accessible and comprehensive information exchange regarding healthcare resources; (b) community-based programs, underscoring the role of community resources and support networks in facilitating healthcare access and transition; and (c) healthcare coordination, highlighting the necessity of tailored and ongoing support mechanisms to assist individuals with ASD during the transition process.
Conclusion
This study contributes to the existing literature on the transition to adulthood for individuals with ASD by identifying key factors influencing healthcare system navigation. Recognizing and addressing these factors are vital due to their profound impact on youth and their families. The findings highlight the importance of accessing navigational services to facilitate a successful transition of healthcare systems and can inform the development of navigational support interventions.
Contribution to the literature
•
There is limited information about how individuals with ASD navigate healthcare services as they transition to adulthood.
•
This study explored experiences of individuals with ASD, their parents and service providers during transition to adulthood.
•
This project highlights how best we can support individuals with autism during navigating healthcare services.
{"title":"Navigating healthcare among Canadians with ASD during transitions to adulthood: How does it look like from the perspectives of stakeholders?","authors":"Parisa Ghanouni, Paige Kavanaugh","doi":"10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105222","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105222","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>The transition to adulthood presents specific challenges for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their parents, particularly in navigating healthcare systems and adapting routines. Despite the importance of this transition, effectively navigating the healthcare system remains difficult and there is limited information specifically on healthcare navigation. This study aims to address this gap by exploring the experiences of stakeholders to gain a comprehensive understanding and identify crucial components for successfully navigating healthcare systems.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>In-depth interviews were conducted with 20 participants, including 6 youth with ASD, 10 parents of youth with ASD, and 4 service providers from Canadian provinces. The interviews were analyzed thematically to extract meaningful insights.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Thematic analysis revealed three main themes essential to navigating the healthcare system: (a) information sharing, emphasizing the significance of accessible and comprehensive information exchange regarding healthcare resources; (b) community-based programs, underscoring the role of community resources and support networks in facilitating healthcare access and transition; and (c) healthcare coordination, highlighting the necessity of tailored and ongoing support mechanisms to assist individuals with ASD during the transition process.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>This study contributes to the existing literature on the transition to adulthood for individuals with ASD by identifying key factors influencing healthcare system navigation. Recognizing and addressing these factors are vital due to their profound impact on youth and their families. The findings highlight the importance of accessing navigational services to facilitate a successful transition of healthcare systems and can inform the development of navigational support interventions.</div></div><div><h3>Contribution to the literature</h3><div><ul><li><span>•</span><span><div>There is limited information about how individuals with ASD navigate healthcare services as they transition to adulthood.</div></span></li></ul><ul><li><span>•</span><span><div>This study explored experiences of individuals with ASD, their parents and service providers during transition to adulthood.</div></span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span>•</span><span><div>This project highlights how best we can support individuals with autism during navigating healthcare services.</div></span></li></ul></div></div>","PeriodicalId":51351,"journal":{"name":"Research in Developmental Disabilities","volume":"169 ","pages":"Article 105222"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146078719","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}