[Psychosocial and behavioral problems of children and adolescents across five cities in Northern China]

Objective: The objective of this research is to study the prevalence and risk factors of psychosocial and behavioral problems in children and adolescents of different ages and genders to provide a scientific foundation for more targeted psychological interventions and social support in the future. Methods: From April 21 to May 31, 2023, a cross-sectional survey was conducted using a stratified random sampling method in five cities (Beijing City, Changchun City, Baicheng City, Shenyang City, Hohhot City) across four provinces in Northern China (Beijing, Jilin, Liaoning, Inner Mongolia). The study was conducted using an online questionnaire among children and adolescents aged 6-16 years. Self-made social and life characteristics questionnaire and Achenbach Child Behavior Check List (CBCL) (for parent) was utilized to investigate the prevalence of psychosocial and behavioral problems and relative influencing factors. Using stepwise regression analysis to screen potential factors affecting the psychosocial and behavioral health of children and adolescents and logistic regression analysis was employed to analyze the risk factors associated while controlling for confounding variables. Results: A total of 10 492 questionnaires were distributed in this study. Among the 8 593 valid questionnaires collected, there were 4 385 males (51.03%) and 4 208 females (48.97%). The sample consisted of 3 348 children aged 6-11 years old and 5 245 children aged 12-16 years old. Out of these participants, 688 individuals (8.01%) were detected positive. In the 6-11 age group, 1 762 boys were assessed, revealing 142 positive cases (8.06%), while 1 586 girls were assessed, with 84 positive cases (5.30%). In the 12-16 age group, 2 623 boys were evaluated, resulting in 237 positive cases (9.04%), and 2 622 girls were evaluated, with 225 positive cases (8.58%). Overall, boys had a higher prevalence rate than girls did, with older age groups showing higher rates compared to younger ones. Logistic regression analysis identified six significant risk factors: parent-child conflict (OR=4.207, 95%CI: 3.583-4.940), irregular diet patterns(OR=1.862, 95%CI: 1.566-2.213), parental mental illness history(OR=5.381, 95%CI: 2.673-10.83), sleep disorders(OR=4.664, 95%CI: 4.194-5.187), and excessive screen exposure(OR=1.863, 95%CI: 1.577-2.200) were found to be risk factors; whereas having more close friends (OR=0.510, 95%CI: 0.431-0.603) acted as a protective factor. Conclusions: Psychosocial and behavioral problems in children and adolescents will change with social conditions, with continuous attention required to prevent risk factors. Precise intervention and integral support should be implemented by families, schools and society to provide more accurate protection for children and adolescents.