Profile of Children with Deficits in Numerical Cognition

Abstract

This study aimed to characterize the neurocognitive profile of children regarding quantitative, intellectual, and mnemonic skills; and their emotional state. The sample consisted of 42 school children 8-10 years old, divided into two groups: those with difficulties in arithmetic (CDA = 21) and without difficulties in arithmetic (SDA = 21). The children were evaluated through cognitive tests and behaviour scales, which analysed variables such as scholar achievement, abstract reasoning, working memory, numerical cognition, anxiety and stress. The profile of CDA children was characterized by global difficulties in schooling achievement. Also they had stress symptoms compatible with alert and resistance phases, low capacity in working memory and numerical cognition, specifically for numerical processing and calculation.