Infants with persistent crying (PC) in the first 6 months (mean age 3.8 months) were reassessed at 8 to 10 years of age and compared with 64 classroom controls for hyperactivity, conduct problems and academic difficulties in a prospective study at the University of Hertfordshire, UK. Ten (19%) of 53 PC infants had pervasive hyperactivity, as reported by child, parent and teacher, compared with 1 of 62 controls, at school age. Parents and children but not teachers reported more conduct disorders. Parents rated temperament to be more negative in emotionality and difficult-demanding. Teachers reported significantly lower academic achievement in PC group, especially in those with hyperactivity. Infants with PC also had increased incidence of sleeping or feeding problems. [1]
COMMENT. Infants with persistent crying and associated sleeping or feeding problems are at risk for hyperactive behavior and learning difficulties in childhood.