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":"10.1016/j.ridd.2025.105205","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>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.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>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.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>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.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>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.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51351,"journal":{"name":"Research in Developmental Disabilities","volume":"170 ","pages":"Article 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}
Pub Date : 2026-01-24DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105233
Xiao Liang , Raffy C.F. Chan , Justin A. Haegele , Sean Healy , Richard H. Xu , Chang Liu , Ming Chen , Minghui Li , Hui Zhang , Cindy H.P. Sit , David H.K. Shum
Purpose
Physical inactivity is a health concern for children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) as it directly increases their risk of developing various health problems. Evidence on differences in accelerometer-assessed physical activity between children and adolescents with and without NDDs is inconclusive. And age- and body mass index (BMI)-related effects on physical activity remain unclear.
Methods
The systematic literature searches were performed in 6 databases up to March 2025. Methodological quality was evaluated by the Newcastle–Ottawa Scales. Data were pooled using a random-effects model. Hedges’ g was used to express the effect size index with 95 % confidence interval (CI). Meta-regression on age and BMI was also performed to investigate the potential moderating effects.
Results
Out of the 2167 studies initially identified, 28 were included in the analysis, which comprised total physical activity (TPA), moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), and light physical activity (LPA) included in the meta-analysis, respectively. These studies involved 1060 children and adolescents with NDDs and 1820 without, aged 6.6–16.9 years. A small-to-moderate effect size exists for the difference in TPA (g=-0.299) and MVPA (g=-0.479) between children and adolescents with and without NDD, particularly indicating a difference in 12.7 min of MVPA daily. The difference in LPA was not significant (g=0.450, p = 0.125). The decline in MVPA with age was more pronounced in those with NDDs, and the difference in MVPA was smaller for those with lower BMI.
Conclusion
The variation in MVPA differences by age and BMI highlights the need to develop better physical activity habits and reduce these disparities for children and adolescents with NDDs.
目的缺乏身体活动是患有神经发育障碍的儿童和青少年的一个健康问题,因为它直接增加了他们发展各种健康问题的风险。有和没有ndd的儿童和青少年在加速计评估的身体活动差异的证据尚无定论。年龄和身体质量指数(BMI)对身体活动的影响尚不清楚。方法系统检索截至2025年3月的6个数据库的文献。采用纽卡斯尔-渥太华量表评估方法学质量。数据采用随机效应模型汇总。用对冲系数(Hedges’g)表示效应大小指数,置信区间为95 %。还对年龄和BMI进行meta回归,以调查潜在的调节作用。在最初确定的2167项研究中,有28项纳入了分析,分别包括meta分析中的总身体活动(TPA)、中至高强度身体活动(MVPA)和轻度身体活动(LPA)。这些研究涉及1060名患有ndd的儿童和青少年以及1820名没有ndd的儿童和青少年,年龄在6.6-16.9岁之间。在有和没有NDD的儿童和青少年之间,TPA (g=-0.299)和MVPA (g=-0.479)的差异存在小到中等的效应量,特别是每日MVPA的差异为12.7 min。LPA差异无统计学意义(g=0.450, p = 0.125)。ndd患者的MVPA随年龄的下降更为明显,而BMI较低的患者的MVPA差异较小。结论MVPA随年龄和BMI的差异表明,儿童和青少年ndd患者需要养成良好的体育活动习惯,并减少这些差异。
{"title":"Accelerometer-measured physical activity among children and adolescents with and without neurodevelopmental disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis","authors":"Xiao Liang , Raffy C.F. Chan , Justin A. Haegele , Sean Healy , Richard H. Xu , Chang Liu , Ming Chen , Minghui Li , Hui Zhang , Cindy H.P. Sit , David H.K. Shum","doi":"10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105233","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105233","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>Physical inactivity is a health concern for children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) as it directly increases their risk of developing various health problems. Evidence on differences in accelerometer-assessed physical activity between children and adolescents with and without NDDs is inconclusive. And age- and body mass index (BMI)-related effects on physical activity remain unclear.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The systematic literature searches were performed in 6 databases up to March 2025. Methodological quality was evaluated by the Newcastle–Ottawa Scales. Data were pooled using a random-effects model. Hedges’ <em>g</em> was used to express the effect size index with 95 % confidence interval (CI). Meta-regression on age and BMI was also performed to investigate the potential moderating effects.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Out of the 2167 studies initially identified, 28 were included in the analysis, which comprised total physical activity (TPA), moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), and light physical activity (LPA) included in the meta-analysis, respectively. These studies involved 1060 children and adolescents with NDDs and 1820 without, aged 6.6–16.9 years. A small-to-moderate effect size exists for the difference in TPA (g=-0.299) and MVPA (g=-0.479) between children and adolescents with and without NDD, particularly indicating a difference in 12.7 min of MVPA daily. The difference in LPA was not significant (<em>g</em>=0.450, p = 0.125). The decline in MVPA with age was more pronounced in those with NDDs, and the difference in MVPA was smaller for those with lower BMI.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The variation in MVPA differences by age and BMI highlights the need to develop better physical activity habits and reduce these disparities for children and adolescents with NDDs.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51351,"journal":{"name":"Research in Developmental Disabilities","volume":"169 ","pages":"Article 105233"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146038816","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 : 2026-01-23DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105232
Che-Yu Lin , Lin-Ju Kang , Hua-Fang Liao , Pou-Leng Cheong , Chia-Feng Yen , Tsan-Hon Liou , Yen-Tzu Wu , Pei-Ying Yang
Background
Participation is central to development and quality of life in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Most evidence derives from Western populations, and little is known about how body function and environmental components of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) shape participation across developmental stages in East Asia.
Purpose
To examine participation patterns and associated factors among Taiwanese children and adolescents with ASD using a national dataset.
Methods
Data were drawn from the Taiwan Databank of Persons with Disabilities, including 5190 children (aged 6–12) and 3603 adolescents (aged 13–17) with clinically confirmed ASD. Participation frequency and independence across six domains were assessed using the Functioning Scale of the Disability Evaluation System–Child version (FUNDES-Child). Body function and environmental factors were evaluated with standardized subscales. Analysis of covariance compared age groups, and multiple regression identified predictors. Robustness was tested using E-values.
Results
Children showed lower participation frequency, whereas adolescents had reduced independence in social domains. Mental and speech impairments were the strongest limiting factors, while physical and sensory impairments were less influential. Environmental supports, particularly caregiver assistance, social attitudes, and accessibility, were significant predictors. E-values indicated moderate robustness for daily living and mobility (3.11 – 3.47), very high robustness for environmental assistance and social attitude supports (27.7).
Conclusion
Findings highlight the interplay of functional limitations and contextual supports. E-value analyses confirm the robustness of communication-related impairments and environmental supports, suggesting interventions in these domains are most reliable for enhancing participation in East Asian children and adolescents with ASD.
{"title":"Participation patterns and associated factors in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder: A nationwide population study","authors":"Che-Yu Lin , Lin-Ju Kang , Hua-Fang Liao , Pou-Leng Cheong , Chia-Feng Yen , Tsan-Hon Liou , Yen-Tzu Wu , Pei-Ying Yang","doi":"10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105232","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105232","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Participation is central to development and quality of life in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Most evidence derives from Western populations, and little is known about how body function and environmental components of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) shape participation across developmental stages in East Asia.</div></div><div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>To examine participation patterns and associated factors among Taiwanese children and adolescents with ASD using a national dataset.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Data were drawn from the Taiwan Databank of Persons with Disabilities, including 5190 children (aged 6–12) and 3603 adolescents (aged 13–17) with clinically confirmed ASD. Participation frequency and independence across six domains were assessed using the Functioning Scale of the Disability Evaluation System–Child version (FUNDES-Child). Body function and environmental factors were evaluated with standardized subscales. Analysis of covariance compared age groups, and multiple regression identified predictors. Robustness was tested using E-values.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Children showed lower participation frequency, whereas adolescents had reduced independence in social domains. Mental and speech impairments were the strongest limiting factors, while physical and sensory impairments were less influential. Environmental supports, particularly caregiver assistance, social attitudes, and accessibility, were significant predictors. E-values indicated moderate robustness for daily living and mobility (3.11 – 3.47), very high robustness for environmental assistance and social attitude supports (27.7).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Findings highlight the interplay of functional limitations and contextual supports. E-value analyses confirm the robustness of communication-related impairments and environmental supports, suggesting interventions in these domains are most reliable for enhancing participation in East Asian children and adolescents with ASD.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51351,"journal":{"name":"Research in Developmental Disabilities","volume":"169 ","pages":"Article 105232"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146038819","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 : 2026-01-23DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105235
Soo Kyung Park , Haenim Lee
Background
Mothers of children with developmental disabilities (DD) experience chronic and cumulative stress, yet many also report positive psychological changes such as post-traumatic growth (PTG). Few studies have examined how depression and PTG co-occur as distinct mental-health patterns or how psychosocial resources influence these profiles. This study identified latent profiles of depression and PTG among Korean mothers of children with DD and examined whether social support and religious participation predicted profile membership.
Method
A total of 488 mothers of children with DD participated in a survey conducted in Seoul and surrounding areas (2017–2018). Measures included the Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory, PHQ-9 depression scale, perceived informal support, formal service use, and religious participation. Latent profile analysis (LPA) was used to identify distinct psychological profiles, followed by multinomial logistic regression to examine predictors of class membership.
Results
A three-class solution best represented the data: (1) Low PTG/High Depression (13.4 %), (2) Moderate PTG/Moderate Depression (47.9 %), and (3) High PTG/Low Depression (38.6 %). Higher levels of family support, formal support services for caregivers, and active religious participation significantly increased the likelihood of belonging to the High PTG/Low Depression class. Self-rated health also differentiated class membership.
Conclusions
Mothers of children with DD demonstrate heterogeneous combinations of distress and growth, supporting a dual-axis understanding of mental health. Social support—especially family support—and active religious participation emerged as key correlates of more adaptive profiles. Findings highlight the importance of culturally embedded support systems and tailored interventions that address both distress reduction and growth promotion.
{"title":"Latent profiles of depression and post-traumatic growth and their associations with social support and religious participation in mothers of children with developmental disabilities in South Korea","authors":"Soo Kyung Park , Haenim Lee","doi":"10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105235","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ridd.2026.105235","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Mothers of children with developmental disabilities (DD) experience chronic and cumulative stress, yet many also report positive psychological changes such as post-traumatic growth (PTG). Few studies have examined how depression and PTG co-occur as distinct mental-health patterns or how psychosocial resources influence these profiles. This study identified latent profiles of depression and PTG among Korean mothers of children with DD and examined whether social support and religious participation predicted profile membership.</div></div><div><h3>Method</h3><div>A total of 488 mothers of children with DD participated in a survey conducted in Seoul and surrounding areas (2017–2018). Measures included the Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory, PHQ-9 depression scale, perceived informal support, formal service use, and religious participation. Latent profile analysis (LPA) was used to identify distinct psychological profiles, followed by multinomial logistic regression to examine predictors of class membership.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>A three-class solution best represented the data<em>: (1) Low PTG/High Depression</em> (13.4 %), <em>(2) Moderate PTG/Moderate Depression</em> (47.9 %), <em>and (3) High PTG/Low Depression</em> (38.6 %). Higher levels of family support, formal support services for caregivers, and active religious participation significantly increased the likelihood of belonging to the High PTG/Low Depression class. Self-rated health also differentiated class membership.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Mothers of children with DD demonstrate heterogeneous combinations of distress and growth, supporting a dual-axis understanding of mental health. Social support—especially family support—and active religious participation emerged as key correlates of more adaptive profiles. Findings highlight the importance of culturally embedded support systems and tailored interventions that address both distress reduction and growth promotion.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51351,"journal":{"name":"Research in Developmental Disabilities","volume":"169 ","pages":"Article 105235"},"PeriodicalIF":2.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146038818","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}