Persistent early childhood developmental impairment may be associated with later schizophreniform disorder.

Main results Interpersonal difficulties and emotional problems during childhood were more likely among adults with general psychiatric disorders. Additional neuromotor, language and cognitive impairments were present only in children later diagnosed with schizophreniform disorder. Persistent developmental impairment also predicted self reported psychotic symptoms at 11 years, independent of socio-economic, obstetric and maternal factors.