부산대학교 도서관

This exploratory paper describes associations between neonatal clinical data and behavioral outcomes among infants born with very low birth weight (VLBW) at 4 years of age. Statistical analysis of 24 VLBW infants was conducted using principal factor analysis (PFA). Multiple linear regressions were calculated to explore the relationship between identified risk factors (demographic and clinical data) and behavioral measures: the Battelle Developmental Inventory (2nd ed.) Screening Test (BDI-2 ST) and the Achenbach Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Gestational age was controlled for in the model. Exploratory PFA results indicated that two factors had greater ability to explain observed variations within the sample. The first factor significantly associated high-level neonatal care with aggressive behaviors ([beta] = -0.7477, p < 0.05). The first factor was also predictive of lower personal-social, communication, and cognitive scores. The second factor significantly associated cardiopulmonary complications with pervasive developmental problems (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, depression, and oppositional defiant disorder) ([beta] = 0.1977, p < 0.05). These results showed that behavioral consequences at 4 years of age were found among children born VLBW due to the severity of illness, the need of high-level care, and cardiopulmonary complications during the neonatal period. These findings suggest VLBW infants experience longer term effects from trauma early in life and warrant further study. Key Words: Neuropsychology, behavior problems, infancy, pulmonary, developmental perspectives, NICU, prematurity.
Early childhood neurodevelopment refers to the development of neurological pathways that influence performance or functioning. In the newborn period, genetic factors, novel experiential inputs, and behavioral responses act on a [...]