Health and Development of 8‐Year‐Old Children Whose Mothers Abused Amphetamine during Pregnancy

Sixty-five children whose mothers were addicted to amphetamine during pregnancy were followed prospectively until eight years of age, when they were tested in their homes. Only 21 children (30%) remained in the custody of their biological mothers. Their physical health, including growth, was normal. Their IQ and their performance in several psychometric tests were within normal limits. Increased incidences of aggressive behaviour and peer-related problems were found, especially in the groups that had been exposed to amphetamine throughout pregnancy. No correlation was found with socio-environmental factors.