PROTECTIVE ASPECTS OF ADAPTIVE-BEHAVIOR IN CHILDREN WITH SICKLE-CELL SYNDROMES

Examining 61 youths diagnosed with sickle cell syndromes, this study f ocused on both protective and risk factors of adaptive behavioral func tioning in these children. Demographic characteristics (age, sex, inte lligence, and socioeconomic status), severity of disease (number of da ys hospitalized, emergency room visits, hemoglobin, and school days mi ssed), behavioral adjustment, and family functioning were examined to determine their relation to adaptive behavioral competencies. Age, sex , and intellectual functioning were found to be efficient predictors o f the majority of adaptive behavioral domains, with higher adaptive fu nctioning being associated with younger children, girls, and greater i ntellectual functioning. Adjustment difficulties characterized by inte rnalizing symptoms were found to predict communication and global adap tive functioning. Within the context of a risk-resistance adaptation m odel, the present data were interpreted to support the use of secondar y prevention efforts for children with sickle cell syndrome who may be designated at high risk for developmental delays.