Behavioural and emotional characteristics in children with Sotos syndrome and learning disabilities

Abstract

In contrast to physical characteristics, the developmental and behavioural characteristics of children with Sotos syndrome are not well documented. Data from a survey of 27 children (17 males and 10 females; mean age 10 years 7 months; range 6 to 15 years) with mild and moderate learning disabilities were obtained concerning school placement, social networks, adaptive competence, and behavioural problems and compared with a control group matched for cognitive level and age. Ten children attended a mainstream school (with remedial assistance), eight were placed in a school for children with learning disabilities, nine children attended other special schools. Social contact problems and anxious behaviour were reported as the most prominent characteristics of children with Sotos syndrome. Some implications for psychological counselling and educational support are discussed.