Fragile X syndrome in young females: Influence of executive function on the neurocognitive profile and adaptive behavior

Introduction: The aim of this study is to describe the relationship between executive function (EF) and performance in different areas of the neurocognitive profile in young girls with Fragile-X-Syndrome (FXS). Method: A neuropsychological assessment was carried out to 40 female participants aged 7–16 years (26 FXS, 14 control group). Results: Regarding intellectual ability, in the group of girls with FXS 3.84 % of the participants obtained IQ scores in the range of moderate ID (IQ 35–40 to 49), 46.15 % in the range of mild ID (IQ 50–70), 38.46 % in the borderline range (IQ 70–85), and 11.53 % within the average range (IQ > 85). EF was found to have a greater influence on adaptive behavior, arithmetic ability, theory of mind, leadership, social integration, social competence, and anxiety/shyness in the group with FXS. Conclusions: In girls with FXS, EF showed a greater influence on adaptive behavior, arithmetic ability, and social domain.