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Psychosomatic complaints in schoolchildren: a Nordic comparison
L T Berntsson1, L Köhler, J E Gustafsson
1The Nordic School of Public Health, School of Education, Göteborg, Sweden. leeni@nhv.se
Scandinavian Journal of Public Health
|May 18, 2001
Summary
Psychosomatic complaints (PSC) in Nordic children are linked to family well-being and socioeconomic status, with similar patterns across countries. Child
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Health
- Child Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Psychosomatic complaints (PSC) are common in children.
- Understanding PSC determinants across different societal levels is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate associations between PSC and child, family, and societal factors in Nordic countries.
- Compare similarities and differences in PSC determinants across these nations.
Main Methods:
- Survey of 3,760 Nordic children (ages 7-12) via parental questionnaires.
- Structural equation modeling (LISREL analysis) to analyze PSC determinants.
Main Results:
- Headaches and stomach complaints were most prevalent, higher in girls.
- Key factors: mother's health, child's mental stability, social competence, family SES.
- Vulnerable families: low education, low income, unemployed fathers.
Conclusions:
- PSC patterns are largely similar across Nordic countries, indicating shared determinants.
- PSC determinants are multidimensional, influenced by child, family, and societal factors.
- Longitudinal studies are recommended to further elucidate complex relationships.