Developmental and behavioral profile in a domestic adoptees sample: a new challenge for the pediatrician.

BACKGROUND The aim of this study is to investigate the changes of developmental and behavioral profile in a domestic adoptees sample. METHODS Thirty-six domestic adoptive families were recruited, resulting in a sample of 39 children. Families were sent a general questionnaire for collecting data related to the children demographic variables, infant's background (time spent in institutional care, age at adoption), children's health status and anthropometric measures at T0, T1, T2, and T3. Moreover, the Infant Behavior Questionnaire-Revised Very Short Form and a modified version of parent-report of Child Behavior Checklist were used to assess temperament and to detect behavioral problems. RESULTS As regards the psychopathological evaluation, behavior problems were more common in older children, especially among girls. In particular they exhibited a higher frequency of internalizing problems versus externalizing. CONCLUSIONS Children in foster care suffer discontinuity of care that negatively affects their emotional and physical development. It is important for pediatricians to be aware of the special needs of adopted children, providing adequate support to adoptive families.