The consequences of failure-to-thrive (FTT) were investigated using population-based measures to examine three aspects of competence among 6-year-old children with and without a history of FTT: growth, cognitive performance (standardized testing), and behavior (maternal and teacher report). Criteria were set at 1 standard deviation < mean, thus 84% should meet each criterion. The sample included 200 full-term children of appropriate birth weight, recruited from pediatric clinics serving low-income, urban communities and followed from age < 2 through 6 years. At recruitment, FTT group children had weight-for-age or weight-for-height < 5th percentile.
At age 6, 41% of comparison group children and 26% of the FTT group were competent in all three areas (p < .05). Children in the comparison group were more likely to meet height and cognitive performance criteria than children in the FTT group. The two groups did not differ in meeting weight-for-height or behavior criteria. Using logistic regression, competence at age 6 was associated with older age and greater weight-for-height at recruitment and nurturant parenting behavior at age 5. Maltreatment history was differentially related to competence. Children in the FTT group who had been maltreated were less competent, whereas in the comparison group, maltreatment history had no impact on competence.
Given the low rates of competence, findings support the need for universal programs to promote competence among children in low-income communities and to help families build skills for nurturant caregiving. FTT prevention programs are needed because FTT compromises competence, particularly when it co-occurs with maltreatment.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) will be able to: 1. Describe the consequences of poverty and early FTT on growth, cognitive performance, and behavior at age 6. 2. Describe the determinants of competence among children with and without a history of FTT. 3. Discuss recommendations to promote competence among 6 year-old children
Keywords: Competency, Low-Income
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.