Neuropsychological Functioning
& Sensory Processing
Co-Investigators:
Grace Baranek,
Deborah Hatton, &
Stephen Hooper

Background & Research Goals

The purpose of this study is to assess the neurocognitive profile— i.e., attention, memory, and executive function—and the sensory processing functions of children with fragile X syndrome. An initial pilot study yielded useful results, and the neurocognitive and sensory measures are now a part of the standard battery of tests in the longitudinal study of boys with fragile X syndrome.

Methods

Participants


• The pilot study involved assessments of 26 boys with FXS, already enrolled in the longitudinal study, and ranging in age from 59 to 154 months.
  
  

Data Collection


• Children visited Chapel Hill with their families to participate in the pilot study.
• Evaluations took place in the Observational Methods Laboratory at the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
  

Measures


• Leiter-R
  
• Sensory Profile Questionnaire
  
• Sensory Processing Evaluation
  
• Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL)
  
  

Results

• Baranak, G. T., Chin, Y. H., Hess, L. M. G., Yankee, J. G., Hatton, D. D., & Hooper, S. R. (2002). Sensory processing coorelates of occupational performance in children with fragile X syndrome: Preliminary findings. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 56, 538-546.
• Hooper, S. R., Hatton, D. D., Baranek, G. T., Roberts, J. P., & Bailey, D. B. (2000). Nonverbal assessment of cognitive abilities in children with fragile X syndrome: The utility of the Leiter International Performance Scale-Revised. Journal of Psychoeducation Assessment, 18, 225-267.