Smith-Magenis

If a person has a diagnosis of Smith-Magenis syndrome it does not mean they will show all behaviours associated with the syndrome and it is extremely important to remember that everyone with Smith-Magenis syndrome is an individual.

Most people with Smith-Magenis syndrome have an intellectual disability, typically in the moderate intellectual disability range.

Individuals with Smith-Magenis syndrome have been described as having an “endearing” and affectionate personality and a strong sense of humour

Sleep difficulties begin in childhood and carry on into adulthood and may change over time.

Repetitive and stereotyped behaviours such as hand flapping, spinning/twirling objects or body rocking are commonly reported in Smith-Magenis syndrome.

’Attachment’ to particular people (shown by continually asking to see, speak to or contact a particular favourite person) is very common in Smith-Magenis syndrome compared to other genetic syndromes.

Behaviours that challenge , including self-injury and aggression, frequently occurs in Smith-Magenis syndrome with prevalence rates between 70-96% for self-injury and 70-88% for aggression.

Individuals with Smith-Magenis syndrome are more likely to display behaviours related to physical discomfort and pain.

Impulsivity is more common in individuals with Smith-Magenis syndrome than in others with an intellectual disability without this syndrome and when compared to a range of other syndromes.

Emotional control may be a difficulty for some people with Smith-Magenis syndrome, so there may be difficulties controlling emotional responses which may result in temper outbursts.

Communication differences are reported in individuals with Smith-Magenis syndrome with weaknesses in expressive language compared to receptive language.

Individuals with Smith-Magenis syndrome have been found to have relative strengths in long-term memory, computer skills, perceptual skills and socialisation.