Patterns and Correlates of Developmental Profiles Using the Battelle Developmental Inventory Among Children in Early Intervention

Abstract

This study aimed to replicate and extend findings from the only known study that has conducted latent profile analysis of developmental profiles, measured by the Battelle Developmental Inventory, for children in Early Intervention (EI). Children (N = 57,966) who were enrolled in Massachusetts EI sites between 2011 and 2019 and completed a Battelle assessment at EI entry were included. Replicating previous findings, child Battelle profiles were best classified with four latent classes which were largely consistent with previously observed patterns (i.e., domain means within/between classes). Classes were labeled: “Marked communication delay, relative motor strength,” “Communication delay, and average motor functioning,” “Cognitive and motor delays, relative adaptive strength,” and “Consistent mild delays.” We described associations between class and sociodemographic factors and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis. We found large effects of age and ASD. Two profiles that demonstrated communication delays were associated with older age. The “Marked communication delay” profile was associated with an elevated likelihood of ASD. Results suggest that Battelle developmental profiles may be an additional indicator to improve the identification of ASD in community settings and that profile membership could guide tailored interventions for specific developmental needs. Continued research will help determine whether class membership is stable and associated with differential response to EI.