Longitudinal Analysis of State Patterns and Related Variables among Infants and Children with Significant Disabilities

Behavior states and related developmental and medical variables were observed during all or part of the first 4 years of life for 34 infants identified with severe cognitive and multiple disabilities. Eight infants died before 1 year of age. Extensive data were then collected for an additional group of 8 infants who were observed through the age of 4 years. Findings demonstrated emerging state profiles during this time period that were consistent with those found among older populations observed in previous investigations. Different behavior state profiles at age 4 years were indicated by several developmental skills in the first year of life. These results suggest the need for specific, early interventions with infants whose state patterns are inconsistent with optimal learning and development.