Impact of Expected and Actual Preterm Birth and Parental Stress on Childrens Mental Health and Cognition 6 to 11 Years Later

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the mental health and cognitive development of children aged 6 to 11 years who were born prematurely or at term. This study focuses on assessing various mental health challenges, including ADHD, autism traits, affective disorders, and oppositional-aggressive behavior. It also looks at risk and protective factors such as the experience of premature birth, parental mental health, coping strategies, personality traits, social support, and medical complications. The study involves grouping children based on whether they were at risk for preterm birth without actual preterm birth, had an actual preterm birth, or were born at term without risk. Data from medical records and previous questionnaires are used for this grouping. Parents and children participate by completing questionnaires and clinical interviews to assess mental health and cognitive abilities. Questionnaires used include the Child Behaviour Checklist, Conners 3rd Edition, Social Communication Questionnaire, and anxiety and depression scales, while cognitive function is tested with the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children. Participants are recontacted and asked to complete questionnaires and interviews about parental and child mental health. Researchers collect information through self- and parent-reports on behavioral and emotional symptoms and cognitive testing. The main outcome measured is childrens mental health assessed in SummerAutumn 2024, with cognitive competencies evaluated in AutumnWinter 2024. The study also examines parental risk and protective factors using validated questionnaires. This observational study is conducted by Goethe University and includes families who participated in a prior related study.

Expected and Actual Preterm-Birth and Parental Distress: Impact on Children's Mental Health