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DCD diagnosis may help children avoid long-term complications

By Staff Writer

Many parents think that kids who appear to be uncoordinated or refuse to participate in extracurricular activities will eventually grow out of these behaviors, but recent research published in the journal Research in Developmental Disabilities indicates that these may be two symptoms of developmental coordination disorder (DCD). According to the scientists, DCD affects half of ADHD children, as well as many others that do not suffer from attention problems.

While many kids who have DCD perform well academically, they often act clumsy and struggle to play sports or stay organized, the investigators explained.

The research findings showed that undiagnosed or untreated cases of the disorder may lead to significant social impairment later in life. Participants with DCD were more likely than non-affected peers to report feelings of loneliness, as well as drug or alcohol use. However, the scientists said that parents of children who have been diagnosed with the disorder may help their kids avoid these negative effects by encouraging them to partake in group activities, despite reluctance. Also, the researchers said that some ADHD medications have been shown to decrease symptoms of DCD.

Children who suffer from social or behavioral disorders may benefit from attending therapeutic boarding schools where their unique needs can be addressed.

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