Outcomes in individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders over the age of 15

Whittall, Suzanne Tamara (2015). Outcomes in individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders over the age of 15. University of Birmingham. Clin.Psy.D.

Whittall15ClinPsyD_Vol_1_Redacted.pdf
Text - Redacted Version
Restricted to Repository staff only until 2 November 2025.
Download (1MB) | Request a copy

Abstract

The research volume contains a literature review and an empirical paper. The literature review is a review of the literature into mental health problems in individuals over the age of 16 with a neurodevelopmental syndrome (Angelmans, Cri-du-chat, Cornelia de Lange, Fragile X, Prader-willi, Smith-Magenis and Williams syndromes). Each of these syndromes is associated with specific cognitive and behavioural characteristics that are risk factors for mental health. Despite this, the psychological features of these syndromes are largely unknown. This literature review seeks to assess the prevalence and descriptions of symptoms of mental health disorders within these syndromes to assist with early identification and treatment.
The empirical paper is a 10 year longitudinal study into fourteen individuals with Smith-Magenis Syndrome (SMS); a neurodevelopmental disorder first described in 1982. This syndrome is associated with high sociability, moderate/severe intellectual disabilities and high levels of challenging behaviour and sleep disturbances. The behavioural characteristics and communicative abilities of participants were compared between 2003/2004 and 2014/2015 to determine how the support needs of these individuals have changed over time. This study attempts to answer the question; what happens to individuals with SMS as they become adults, and, what the resulting impact is upon their quality of life.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Clin.Psy.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Clin.Psy.D.

Supervisor(s):