A longitudinal study of cognitive development and mental health in maltreated children entering foster care

[摘要] Background: Childhood maltreatment has repeatedly been associated with poorer mental health and cognitive outcomes. Although there is evidence that maltreated children in institutions can make cognitive gains following entry-to- care, especially when entering care at a younger age, the potential for developmental catch-up is not known amongst children in foster care. Similarly, despite the established presence of poorer mental health and cognitive outcomes in this population, the relationship between mental health and cognitive development is not well understood.Aims: This study aimed to explore the rate of cognitive development over time in a sample of maltreated children in foster care, and to investigate the relationship between mental health at entry-to-care and later cognitive function.Methods: The sample consisted of thirty-two maltreated children, recruited for the on-going Best Services Trial. Assessments of mental health and cognition were administered following entry-to-care, and cognitive assessments were repeated after 15 and 30 months.Results: The results suggested that childhood maltreatment is a possible risk factor for poorer cognition and that there is scope for developmental catch-up following entry-to-care, particularly for younger children. Mental health at entry- to-care did not influence subsequent cognitive ability.Conclusions: The findings of this study highlight the potential benefits of early placement of maltreated children to a place of greater safety, in aid of supporting their cognitive development.

[发布机构] University:University of Glasgow;Department:Institute of Health and Wellbeing

[关键词] Childhood maltreatment, cognitive function, memory, executive function, mental health.