The Development of Attention Among Persons With Down Syndrome

Abstract

Clinical reports of persons with Down Syndrome (DS) generally include descriptions of attentional challenges, which in some cases are diagnosed as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). While the rates of diagnosable disorders of attentional function are important considerations for clinicians, educators, researchers, and stakeholders, so too is an understanding of strengths and weaknesses in the development of different facets of attention that may not rise to the level of psychological disorder but may nonetheless adversely affect daily functioning. Attentional challenges among persons with DS must be understood, both clinically and empirically, within a developmental context that considers an individual’s relative strengths and weaknesses, as well how, and in relation to whom, comparisons are being made. The purpose of this chapter is to critically assess and synthesize the research on attentional processes among persons with DS, focusing on the development of attentional orienting as well as selective and sustained attention. Findings are contextualized with respect to contemporary definitions of attention, and their development among typically developing persons, and yield a fairly consistent profile of strengths and weaknesses in attentional function among persons with DS across the lifespan. Conclusions focus on recommendations for future research including clinical implications and considerations.

Visual filtering in time and space among persons with Down syndrome

“…Nonetheless, group performance may not be unconditionally comparable between persons with DS and their MA‐matched peers. As Kaplan et al (in press) noted in their review of attention among persons with DS, attentional filtering may be impaired or less efficient relative to MA‐matched comparison participants when tasks demands are more complex. Accordingly, in this study, we examined visual filtering among persons with DS with a more complex adaptation of the Eriksen & Eriksen (1974) flanker task in which both temporal and spatial filtering demands were manipulated.…”