Children With Developmental Delays Twenty Years Later: Where Are They? How Are They?

Abstract

Data from parents and young adults were collected as part of a 20-year follow-up of children with developmental delays who had been identified at age 3 years. The young adults and their parents provided information through questionnaires and personal interviews. Findings documented a broad range of outcomes, with some young adults leading independent and productive lives, whereas the majority were un- or underemployed, living with and financially dependent upon their families, and socially isolated. Three types of parent-young adult relationships were identified. For both parents and young adults, IQ was significantly and negatively related to perceived life satisfaction.