Profiles of everyday executive functioning in relation to adaptive behaviour in children and adolescents with Down syndrome

Executive functions (EF) are higher-order cognitive processes that support goal-directed behaviour. Previous research has shown that individuals with Down syndrome (DS) often experience EF impairments, with a profile of strengths and weaknesses. However within-group variability remains underexplored. The present study aimed to explore EF profiles in 111 children and adolescents with DS aged 7–17 years using caregiver-reported data from the BRIEF-2 scales. A latent profile analysis was conducted to derive EF subgroups and it revealed a three-profile solution: a Clinically Elevated Profile, characterised by widespread EF difficulties; a Moderate Difficulties Profile, with milder and more selective impairments; and a Preserved Profile, with scores largely within the normative range. These profiles differed in both overall severity and domain-specific configuration of EF. Significant differences emerged between the profiles in adaptive behaviour, assessed using Vineland-II standard scores, but not in verbal or non-verbal cognitive abilities, evaluated using the WPPSI-III. The most consistent effects were observed in Socialization. These findings demonstrate meaningful EF heterogeneity in school-aged children with DS and underscore the value of person-centered approaches in assessment and intervention, with important implications for individualised educational and clinical support.