Behavioral ratings and outcome of medical treatment for encopresis

The relationship between behavior problems and encopresis remains controversial. Recent research suggests that children with encopresis do have numerous behavior problems, but that these problems are generally not as severe as the behavior problems found in children referred for mental health services. This study explores the relationship between baseline behavior ratings of encopretic boys, ages 6-11, on a standardized rating form, the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), and outcome of medical treatment for their encopresis. A strong correlation between the product of the sum of the factors on the internalizing scales and the sum of the factors on the externalizing scales and their interaction on the CBCL was associated with outcome. Specifically, moderate elevations of this function predicted good outcome at 3, 6, and 12 months. Very high elevations and minimal or no elevation predicted poor outcome at 3, 6, and 12 months. Possible reasons for these somewhat surprising results are discussed.