Black, Latino Kids Less Likely to Get Early Help for Developmental Delays, Study Finds

 

by Dr. Tyeese L. Gaines

Black and Latino children with developmental delays are much less likely — 78 percent less — than white children to receive the early intervention services they need, according to a 2012 study published in the Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics.

In a study published earlier this month, researchers attempt to figure out the possible reasons why.

According the study, a developmental delay is defined as a condition in which children do not reach their milestones for motor, language, cognitive, social, behavioral, or adaptive skills. Early intervention services are customized services to help the child catch up and increase his or her chances to succeed in life and school. One in six children have a developmental disability, according to the CDC. These conditions can impact day-to-day functioning, starting during the developmental period, and sometimes lasting throughout the person’s lifetime.

The researchers interviewed low-income African-American and Hispanic moms to understand the role their personal beliefs play on why services aren’t being utilized. 

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Source: NBC News