Common Comorbid and Interrelated Psychological Traits Among Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Abstract

Background: Neurodevelopmental Disorders (NDDs) in children present with complex psychological and behavioral symptoms, often complicating clinical assessment. The study provides an overview on comorbid psychological traits or psychiatric disorders in children with NDDs in Palestine, specifically focusing on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Specific Learning Disorder (SLD), and Intellectual Developmental Disorder (IDD). Method: Using a Descriptive Analytic approach, 175 mothers rated their children’s psychological traits using a questionnaire developed from DSM 5 TR and ICD 11th criteria. The questionnaire covered 11 domains of comorbidity. Results: Notable relations were found that necessitate clinical attention. Specific disorders like Phobic Disorder, Camouflage and Noli Me Tangere were more prevalent in children with ASD, while Phobic Disorder followed by Depression was evident in IDD. ADHD and SLD majorly exhibit Phobic Disorder and Anxiety Disorder. The study highlighted evident comorbidity and interrelation of certain psychological traits/disorders among NDDs. Conclusions: Recognizing comorbid psychological traits in assessment can enhance case management, recognize individual and cultural differences, and improve care for individuals with NDDs.