Emotional well-being of adults with Down syndrome: a transdiagnostic insight

  • María Álvarez-Couto
    Universidad Complutense de Madrid maralv10[at]ucm.es
  • Gema P. Sáez-Suanes
    Universidad Complutense de Madrid
  • María D’orey Roquete
    Universidad Complutense de Madrid

Abstract

Introduction. Different studies show high rates of psychopathological disorders, such as anxiety or depression, in adults with Down syndrome (DS). In addition, some variables such as executive functions (EF) and emotion regulation (ER), essential elements in adaptive behavior, present deficits in these people. Method. This study aimed to investigate the influence of EF and ER on the development of internalizing symptoms (depression and anxiety) in adults DS. DEX, ERC and PIMRA-II questionnaires were used with a sample of 40 adults to determine whether difficulties in executive functions and emotional regulation are related to the appearance of internalized symptoms in this population. Results. Results show the association between EF, ER and depression and anxiety. Likewise, there is a relation between internalizing symptomatology and life events such as the death of a familiar. Discussion. Intervention in ER and EF should be considered to prevent the appearance of internalized symptoms and the development of emotional disturbances. More research is needed to intervene in both capacities in a more comprehensive way, especially with regard to emotion regulation.
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Álvarez-Couto, M., Sáez-Suanes, G. P., & D’orey Roquete, M. (2020). Emotional well-being of adults with Down syndrome: a transdiagnostic insight. Siglo Cero, 50(4), 7–21. https://doi.org/10.14201/scero2019504721

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Author Biographies

María Álvarez-Couto

,
Universidad Complutense de Madrid
Universidad Complutense de Madrid

Gema P. Sáez-Suanes

,
Universidad Complutense de Madrid
Universidad Complutense de Madrid

María D’orey Roquete

,
Universidad Complutense de Madrid
Universidad Complutense de Madrid
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