Distinct mental health profiles in children with Developmental Coordination Disorder: A latent class analysis and associations

Children with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) show indications for mental health problems. However, these problems are poorly understood. To identify patterns (profiles) of mental health in this population and to analyze the associations between profiles and child characteristics. Parents of 119 children with DCD completed the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Results indicated that a four latent class was the best model. Profile 1 was defined as “no” mental health problems (n = 28; 24 %), Profile 2 was defined as “hyperactivity” problems (n = 53; 43.3 %), for clinical indications for hyperactivity, Profile 3 was defined as “internalizing” problems (n = 8; 7.3 %), for clinical indications for emotional symptoms and peer problems, and Profile 4 was defined as “internalizing and externalizing problems” (n = 30; 25.4 %), for clinical indications for problems in both areas. In addition, having a co-occurring disorder, accommodation plans, and using medications were associated with the profiles. There are distinct and unique profiles that children with DCD exhibit. Clinicians can use these profiles to better understand the presentation of mental health symptoms in this population and provide adequate services or support if mental health difficulties are present. •Mental health problems are detrimental to children with DCD.•About three in four children with DCD have mental health problems.•Four distinct profiles of hyperactivity and internalizing problems were identified.•These profiles can be used to coordinate mental health services for children with DCD.