A developmental comparison of premature and full term children of low socioeconomic status

ABSTRACT

This study was undertaken to reevaluate prematurely born children with weights 2000 grams and less, of preschool age. It compared the developmental level of prematurely born children all belonging to the lower socioeconomic status. A total of 16 premature children and 16 full term children were enrolled in the study. No significant differences were found between the premature and full term group on all measures of psychological development. No correlation were found between birth weight, gestational age, intrauterine growth retardation, perinatal complications and the outcome measures of psychological development. A significant delay in mental, motor, language, personal-social, and adaptive development was seen in both the premature and full term group. None of the children exhibited visual-motors problems. Mental developmental is directly related to nutritional status and maternal education