Attention Problems in Very Low Birth Weight Preschoolers: Are New Screening Measures Needed for This Special Population?

To purchase or authenticate to the full-text of this article, please visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1744-6171.2007.00089.x Byline: Deborah Winders Davis (1), Barbara Burns (2), Elizabeth Snyder (3), Julia Robinson (4) Keywords: Attention networks; attention problems; prematurity; preschool children Abstract: PROBLEM: Children born prematurely have been shown to have a range of problems that often result in delayed academic achievement. METHODS: The current study assessed both attention problem scores (Child Behavior Checklist) and actual performance on tasks tapping three attention networks in a sample of children (n = 94) born with very low birth weights (VLBW; [less than or equal to] 1500 grams). FINDINGS: Attention problem scores were extremely low and did not predict children's actual attention performance. CONCLUSIONS: A body of research is developing that suggests VLBW children may have specific, yet subtle, attention problems that may differ from those of other children. Author Affiliation: (1)Department of Pediatrics (2)Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY (3)The Center for Child and Family Policy, Duke University, Durham, NC (4)Department of Psychology, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, KY