Research Finds No Behavioral Differences in Children with Preterm-born Siblings; Children Without Siblings Exhibit More Difficulties

A recent study published in PLOS Mental Health has investigated whether having a sibling born preterm (before 37 weeks of gestation) influences behavior in children born at term. Conducted by researchers from the University of Oulu, Finland, the study analyzed data from over 65,000 children aged 14 and under across several European countries, including Denmark, Norway, Italy, and the Netherlands.

The researchers categorized children into three groups: those with at least one preterm-born sibling, those with only term-born siblings, and children without any siblings. They assessed various behavioral outcomes, focusing on internalizing behaviors such as anxiety, depression, and stress, as well as externalizing behaviors like impulsivity, aggression, and rule-breaking. The behavioral data were collected through parental reports using established tools like the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire and the Child Behavior Checklist.

Findings revealed that having a preterm-born sibling does not significantly impact behavioral outcomes in children. There was no evidence that these children exhibited more behavioral problems compared to their peers with only term-born siblings. However, the study did observe that children without siblings displayed higher levels of both internalizing and externalizing behaviors, indicating greater emotional and behavioral difficulties.

The study emphasizes the importance of further research into the mental health of siblings of preterm-born children and suggests that larger, longitudinal studies are needed to explore potential vulnerabilities. Currently, siblings of preterm children are an understudied group, and understanding their specific needs could help inform targeted support strategies.

Utilizing the DataSHIELD platform, the researchers ensured data privacy and secure sharing across institutions, facilitating this comprehensive analysis while maintaining strict data protection standards.

This research underscores that siblings of preterm-born children are not at an increased risk for behavioral difficulties, but it also highlights the necessity for ongoing investigation into the mental health and well-being of all children in these families.

Source: MedicalXpress