Abstracts

RATIONALE: Study goal was to examine the adaptive skills demonstrated by children with epilepsy, in a natural nonacademic setting with peers, in relation to underlying behavioral status as identified by parents. METHODS: Systematic comparison data were gathered at a week-long overnight camp for children with epilepsy (N = 41, ages 6-16). Parents completed standardized behavioral ratings (Behavior Assessment System for Children) at camp opening. Observational ratings of social/ adaptive behavior (derived in part from Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales items) were based on counselor reports at end of camp. RESULTS: Children as a group were rated by parents as average in both externalizing (T-score mean 48.4) and internalizing (T-score mean 53.5) problems. No gender differences were found. Parents rated their children's adaptive competence (positive behaviors) as normal, although slightly below average (T-score mean 44.2). Spearman correlational analyses found a significant negative relationship between BASC externalizing problems and counselor ratings of interactional responsiveness (Rho = -0.31, p ? .05). In addition, children outside the average range on externalizing or internalizing scores (T-scores ?40 or ? 60) were compared on counselor ratings. Findings were significant only for externalizing behavior. Children with higher externalizing behavior (i.e., more acting-out) showed lower daily living skills ratings (F = 10.51, p < .01) and a trend toward lower social interaction ratings (F = 3.17, p < .10). CONCLUSIONS: Children with epilepsy who are allowed to attend sleep-away camp are likely to be rated by parents as managing as well as healthy peers in terms of general emotional/behavioral adjustment. As might be expected, externalizing behavior problems predicted greater adaptive issues in the camp social environment. While findings are limited by the small sample size and lack of standardization of counselor rating forms, results provide a descriptive window on some of the particular vulnerabilities and strengths of children with chronic epilepsy as they practice behavioral independence away from their usual home supports.