Developmental coordination disorder and executive function deficits: Implications for emotional, mental, and overall well-being

Background: Developmental coordination disorder (DCD) has been found to be associated with executive function (EF) deficits, and to negatively impact emotional (self-esteem, self-efficacy), mental, and overall well-being. Previous research has largely focused on EF deficits in children with DCD, with limited examination of adults, particularly in relation to the effect of co-occurring EF deficits on various well-being aspects. Objectives: To investigate (1) the frequency of EF deficits in adults with DCD, and (2) whether the co-occurrence of DCD and EF deficits contributes to emotional, mental, and overall well-being. Methods: Fifty-five adults with DCD, without hyperactive attention deficit disorder (mean age = 27.57 years, 49.1 % male), underwent a test battery to assess fulfillment of the DSM-5 criteria for DCD. They completed norm-referenced measures of everyday EF-related difficulties, as well as self-report questionnaires measuring emotional, mental, and overall well-being. Results: Almost 50 % of the adults with DCD exhibited EF deficits, manifested mostly by 'cold' (non-emotion-related) difficulties in task monitoring, planning, and organizing, and working memory. Compared to participants with DCD alone, participants with co-occurring DCD and EF deficits had significantly (p < 0.05) lower emotional, mental, and overall well-being, manifested by lower self-esteem, general self-efficacy, and life satisfaction and higher psychological distress. Conclusions: EF deficits, particularly in 'cold' domains, are highly prevalent among individuals with DCD, substantially affecting their emotional, mental, and overall well-being. The results highlight the need for a comprehensive evaluation of EF by healthcare professionals to ensure interventions address both motor and potential cognitive challenges, supporting improved well-being.