The role of biological and environmental factors in the emotional development of children with Costello Syndrome. Case study

Abstract

The authors of the article analyse biological, environmental and individual factors affecting the emotional development of a child with Costello Syndrome (CS) based on a case study of a 9-year-old girl named Zuzanna. Costello Syndrome, which is a rare genetic disorder, is associated with communication difficulties, psychomotor delay and emotional challenges. The study included an analysis of medical records, an interview with the mother and expert opinions. The results indicate that the specific difficulties associated with Costello Syndrome significantly impede speech development and consequently the expression of emotions, leading to frustration and secondary emotional difficulties. The mother’s support in the therapeutic process and the integration with peers, which fostered the improvement of Zuzanna’s social and emotional competences, proved to be crucial. The importance of early diagnosis, multi-specialist therapy and family involvement in the support process was highlighted. The results indicate the need for a holistic therapeutic approach and further research into the specificity of rare diseases. The analysis shows that well-tailored support allows children with CS to function better in society and progress in their emotional development.