Growth status, behavior and neuropsychological performance: A study of Brazilian school age children

Abstract

Aim: To assess the association between child growth and teacher-reported behavior and academic standing, and neuropsychological performance. Method: The heights of 344 public-school children were measured using standard procedures. Teachers were requested to complete two behavioral and one academic performance rating scales. Neuropsychological assessment consisted of the Edinburgh Handedness Inventory, the Steadiness Test and the Purdue Pegboard. Height-for-age z (HAZ) scores were calculated based on an international reference. Standard (z) scores for each factor of the first two behavioral rating scales and for each neuropsychological variable were computed for each child based on locally-derived norms. Results: HAZ scores were negatively correlated with factors related to hyperactivity, conduct problem, impulsivity and inattention of the behavioral rating scales. In addition, the lower the HAZ score the worse the academic performance. Conclusion: These results add to the existing evidence indicating a strong association between growth status and child behavior and academic performance.