Related Experiment Videos
Emotional and behavioural problems in a sample of Finnish three-year-olds
1Department of Child Psychiatry, Turku University Hospital, Finland.
Insights
This study examined behavioral and emotional problems in Finnish toddlers. Findings indicate similarities with international data, with boys showing more destructive behaviors and parental factors influencing problem levels.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Developmental Pediatrics
- Public Health
Background:
- Early childhood behavioral and emotional problems are significant public health concerns.
- Understanding prevalence and associated factors in diverse populations is crucial for early intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and correlates of behavioral and emotional problems in Finnish three-year-olds.
- To compare findings with international data on preschooler problem behaviors.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Child Behavior Checklist for ages 2-3, a standardized rating scale.
- Collected data from 374 participants (71% of target population) at well-baby clinics in two Finnish cities.
Main Results:
- Prevalence and mean scores of problem behaviors were similar to international studies.
- Boys exhibited higher destructive behavior scores than girls.
- Parental education, single-parent family structure, and parental unemployment were linked to increased problem behaviors.
- No significant differences in problems were associated with daycare, but co-sleeping correlated with sleep issues.
Conclusions:
- Finnish toddlers' behavioral and emotional problem profiles align with international trends.
- Socioeconomic factors and family structure significantly influence early childhood behavioral outcomes.
- Targeted support for families facing socioeconomic challenges may be beneficial.
Abstract:
Behavioural and emotional problems in Finnish three-year-olds was studied using the Child Behavior Checklist for ages 2-3 as a standardised rating scale at well-baby clinics in two cities in Finland. Altogether 374 questionnaires were analysed which is 71% of the target population. When compared with studies from other countries the mean scores and prevalences of preschool children's problem behaviours were rather similar. Boys were reported to be more destructive than girls. Parental education level, living in one-parent family and parental unemployment were associated with a higher level of problem behaviours. No significant differences were found in emotional or behavioural problems related to the child's day care. Co-sleeping with parents was associated with sleep problems.