Chronic Functional Constipation and Encopresis in Children in Relationship with the Psychosocial Environment

Claudia Olaru1, Smaranda Diaconescu1, Laura Trandafir1

  • 1"Gr. T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, Romania; "Sf. Maria" Emergency Hospital for Children, Iasi, Romania.

Insights

Functional constipation and encopresis significantly impact children

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Child Psychology
  • Family Medicine

Background:

  • Functional constipation and encopresis negatively affect children's psychoemotional state, social interactions, and school integration.
  • These conditions pose challenges for both affected children and their families.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the relationship between chronic constipation, encopresis, and the psychosocial and family context of pediatric patients.
  • To identify factors contributing to the development and manifestation of these conditions.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 57 children (ages 6-15) diagnosed with encopresis was assessed in a pediatric gastroenterology setting.
  • Sociodemographic, medical, and psychological data were collected and analyzed using SPSS 20 software.

Main Results:

  • The study group comprised 57 children with encopresis (75.44% boys), with an average age of 10.82 years.
  • Most children originated from urban families with lower socioeconomic and educational backgrounds.
  • A significant correlation was found between encopretic episodes and poorer school performance, increased anxiety/depression, social difficulties, and disruptive behavior.

Conclusions:

  • The family environment and socioeconomic factors play a crucial role in the presentation of chronic constipation and encopresis in children.
  • Addressing these psychosocial and environmental factors is essential for managing pediatric functional constipation and encopresis.

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