Smith Magenis
Social Interaction in Smith-Magenis syndrome
A study led by Dr Lucy Wilde from the University of Birmingham has found differences in how children with Smith-Magenis syndrome (SMS) interact with others in comparison to children with Down syndrome. In order to find these differences Lucy Wilde visited the schools of 10 children with Smith-Magenis syndrome and 10 children with Down syndrome and observed them for a full day. The children with Smith-Magenis syndrome and the children with Down syndrome were a good match in terms of age. The sequence/pattern of interactions of children SMS with adults and peers were recorded.
It was found that individuals with Smith-Magenis syndrome show a strong preference for interacting with adults over their peers. In addition, when children with Smith-Magenis syndrome are interacting with others this interaction appears to be less well organised in individuals with SMS in comparison to children with Down syndrome. For example, children with Smith-Magenis syndrome attempt to initiate interaction with adults at times when interaction is not possible.
To hear Lucy discuss her research in more detail watch the short video below: