Degree Date

3-2024

Document Type

Dissertation - Public Access

Degree Name

Psy.D. Doctor of Clinical Psychology

Academic Discipline

Clinical Psychology - Florida School of Professional Psychology

First Advisor

Sharie Fabregas, Psy.D.

Second Advisor

Marcia Pita, Ph.D.

Abstract

There are roughly ten percent, or 15 million, preterm births every year across the world. Therefore, it is vital to understand the impact on their development across cognitive, academic, socioemotional, and behavioral levels. A vast amount of research has shown that children who are born prematurely are more at risk of facing challenges across various areas of their development. However, the majority of the research samples have been limited within their scope, leaving behind a gap in research focused on specific subgroups within the population. By delving into the unique context of the Latinx population, this study endeavors to shed light on the specific challenges and considerations involved in neuropsychological assessment within this demographic group between the toddler years to middle childhood. This review seeks to evaluate current recommendations and resources for the support groups of preterm and low-birth-weight children, ranging from clinicians to families. Furthermore, it seeks to improve outcomes through early interventions among the Latinx population, given the unique factors that intertwine within their ethnic context.

Comments

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Abstract i

Dedication. iii

CHAPTER I: INTRODUCTION.. 1

Preterm Birth and Degrees. 3

Global Statistics. 3

United States Statistics. 4

Latinx Population in the United States. 5

Impact on Premature Children. 7

Neurological and Neurodevelopmental Challenges. 8

Academic Challenges. 8

Socioemotional and Behavioral Challenges. 9

Common Diagnoses. 10

Statement of the Problem.. 11

Purpose of the Study. 11

Literature Review Questions. 12

Research Procedure. 12

Limitations. 13

CHAPTER II: PREMATURITY AND NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL FUNCTIONING.. 14

Neuroconstructivism Theory. 14

Biological and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes. 17

Neuropsychological Outcomes and Assessment 20

Executive Functioning. 20

Working Memory. 24

Processing Speed. 27

Attention. 30

Language. 34

Relevant Diagnoses. 38

Intellectual Disability. 38

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder 41

Communication Disorders. 44

Cerebral Palsy. 47

CHAPTER III: PREMATURITY AND ACADEMIC FUNCTIONING.. 50

Academic Outcomes. 50

Biological Factors Impacting Academic Functioning. 52

Social and Environmental Factors Impacting Academic Functioning. 55

Academic Areas of Concern. 57

Mathematics. 57

Literacy. 63

Relevant Diagnosis. 70

Specific Learning Disorder 70

CHAPTER IV: PREMATURITY SOCIOEMOTIONAL AND BEHAVIORAL FUNCTIONING.. 78

Socioemotional Outcomes. 79

Biological Factors Impacting Socioemotional Outcomes. 80

Environmental and Social Factors Impacting Socioemotional Outcomes. 83

Behavioral Outcomes. 89

Internalizing Behaviors. 93

Externalizing Behaviors. 97

Relevant Diagnosis. 100

Autism Spectrum Disorder 100

Socioemotional Disorders. 106

CHAPTER V: THE EFFECTS OF PREMATURITY WITHIN THE LATINX POPULATION.. 110

Latinx Population in the United States. 110

Neuropsychological Factors Impacting Preterm Births Within the Latinx Population. 111

Neuropsychological Assessment of Latinx. 111

Bilingualism and Developmental Outcomes in Preterm Children. 115

Academic Factors Impacting Preterm Births Within the Latinx Population. 123

Parental Education Level 123

Social Factors Impacting Preterm Births Within the Latinx Population. 127

Disparities in Healthcare. 127

Poverty and Segregation. 128

Job Hazards. 129

Cultural Factors Impacting Prematurity Outcomes. 130

Acculturation. 130

Latina Paradox. 132

Familism.. 134

Emotional Factors Impacting Preterm Births Within the Latinx Population. 135

Anxiety and Stress. 135

Legal Status. 138

CHAPTER VI: DISCUSSION.. 140

Summary of Research Findings. 140

Clinical Implications. 155

Limitations. 159

Recommendations. 161

References. 165

View Full Text

Share

COinS