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Prevalence of behavioral problems in school going children
1Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, Christian Medical College, Ludhiana, India. sunilag59@hotmail.com
Indian Journal of Pediatrics
|May 24, 2001
Summary
This study identified behavioral problems in Indian school children using teacher screening and interviews. Scholastic under-achievement was a key indicator, highlighting the need for collaboration between schools, parents, and healthcare providers.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Educational Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Behavioral problems in school children are a significant concern.
- Early identification and intervention are crucial for healthy child development.
- Understanding the prevalence and associated factors of behavioral issues in diverse populations like India is important.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate the prevalence of behavioral problems in school children in Ludhiana, India.
- To explore the utility of teacher-completed screening tools and parental interviews in identifying these problems.
- To identify factors associated with behavioral problems, particularly scholastic under-achievement.
Main Methods:
- A two-part study involving 957 school children in Ludhiana, India.
- Initial screening using the Rutter B scale completed by class teachers.
- Follow-up interviews with a child psychiatrist for children with high scores and matched controls, along with their parents.
Main Results:
- 14.6% of children screened positive for behavioral problems.
- An estimated 45.6% of children had behavioral problems, with 36.5% experiencing significant issues.
- Scholastic under-achievement was strongly associated with behavioral problems.
- Neither screening nor interview methods detected all problems.
Conclusions:
- Behavioral problems are prevalent among school children in Ludhiana, India.
- Scholastic under-achievement is a significant indicator for identifying children with behavioral issues.
- Integrated approaches involving teachers, parents, and healthcare professionals are vital for effective management and promoting healthy child development.