Cerebral palsy risk factors and their impact on psychopathology

Abstract

Objective: We examined whether the type of brain injury impacts the psychopathological profile and quality of life in children with cerebral palsy (CP).

Methods: We assessed 18 children with CP [9 premature, 9 asphyxia at term] and 16 siblings using parent forms of the child behavior checklist (CBCL), disruptive behavior disorder rating scale (DBDRS), and pediatric quality of life inventory (PEDSQL).

Results: Children with CP demonstrated more emotional and behavioral symptoms (depression, anxiety, and social, thought, and attention problems) and lower quality of life than their siblings. The pathopsychological profile of children with CP due to prematurity and asphyxia was similar.

Conclusion: Etiology does not impact the psychopathology in children with CP.

Keywords:

• Psychopathology
• Cerebral palsy
• Periventricular leukomalacia
• Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy
• Quality of life

This study was completed for Anat Levy-Zaks, MA thesis; no funding or financial support received. We thank the parents of the children included in the study for their time and cooperation.