Applicability of the Griffiths Mental Development Scales- extended revised to the South African context : a systematic review

Abstract

The contribution and value of developmental assessment in the developing world, and especially the impact it has on the cognitive development of the African child in terms of early diagnosis and intervention are increasingly being documented. However, unique tests for specific cultural groups are lacking and the development thereof is a complex, costly and time consuming endeavor. Adapting internationally researched tests that have been proven to be valid and reliable in other countries seem to be an effective solution at present. The Griffiths Mental Development Scales (Griffiths scales) is one such test that could answer the developmental assessment needs of the developing world. The Griffiths Scales was introduced in South Africa in 1977 and since then an expanding pool of research has been done on the Griffiths. This together with societal and cultural change and the lack of South African norms have influenced the need for a review. This study therefore reviews the applicability of the Griffiths scales for South Africa by assessing all accessible information. Both international and national literature done on the Griffiths scales in South Africa between 1977 and 2013 has been interrogated. Books, journals, articles, theses and computer data bases are employed to conduct this systematic review. The review presents a synopsis of the present state of knowledge and information regarding research done on the Griffiths scales in South Africa.