Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 10, 2026
11:29
Measuring the Functional Abilities of Children Aged 3-6 Years Old with Observational Methods and Computer Tools
Published on: June 20, 2020
9.6K
Difficulties in Functioning Among Children in the United States: 2021-2023
National Health Statistics Reports
|November 25, 2025
Summary
National estimates show that over half of children ages 5-17 and a quarter of children ages 2-4 experience functioning difficulties. Communication, learning, and behavior were common challenges for younger children, while older children faced issues with anxiety, change, and behavior.
Area of Science:
- Child Health
- Developmental Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Child functioning difficulties impact development and well-being.
- Understanding prevalence is crucial for targeted interventions.
- The Child Functioning Module provides a standardized assessment tool.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present national estimates of functioning difficulties in children aged 2-17.
- To analyze prevalence by age group, sex, and other demographic factors.
- To identify specific functional domains most affected.
Main Methods:
- Utilized 2021-2023 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) data.
- Employed the Child Functioning Module to assess difficulties in various domains.
- Calculated prevalence estimates for overall functioning and specific domains.
Main Results:
- 24.9% of children aged 2-4 and 50.8% of children aged 5-17 reported functioning difficulties.
- Boys were more likely than girls to experience significant difficulties.
- Commonly affected domains included communication, learning, behavior, anxiety, and depression.
Conclusions:
- Functioning difficulties are prevalent in US children, varying by age and sex.
- Targeted support is needed for children experiencing challenges in specific domains.
- Continued monitoring via the NHIS is essential for public health initiatives.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Oppositional Defiant Disorder
591
A persistent pattern of angry or irritable mood, defiant behavior, or vindictiveness characterizes Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). Symptoms must occur over at least six months, involve interactions with individuals beyond siblings, and meet specific diagnostic criteria to be clinically significant. The disorder affects emotional regulation, social interactions, and behavior, often manifesting early in life and influencing long-term development and functioning.
Diagnostic Criteria and...
Diagnostic Criteria and...
591
01:30Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
722
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings....
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings....
722
01:25Learning Disabilities
554
Learning disabilities are cognitive disorders caused by neurological impairments that affect cognitive functions like language and reading, without indicating overall intellectual or developmental challenges. These disabilities differ from global intellectual or developmental disabilities as they are limited to distinct cognitive functions. Common learning disabilities include dysgraphia, dyslexia, and dyscalculia, each of which impacts unique aspects of learning.
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a...
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a...
554
02:04Bullying
8.8K
A modern form of aggression is bullying. As you learn in your study of child development, socializing and playing with other children is beneficial for children’s psychological development. However, as you may have experienced as a child, not all play behavior has positive outcomes. Some children are aggressive and want to play roughly. Other children are selfish and do not want to share toys. One form of negative social interactions among children that has become a national concern is...
8.8K
01:30Information Processing Approach
497
The information-processing theory of cognitive development centers on fundamental mental processes, including attention, memory, and problem-solving skills. Researchers in this field examine how cognitive abilities, such as working memory, evolve and influence children's overall development. Studies indicate that children with stronger working memory tend to excel in reading comprehension, math, and problem-solving compared to peers with less efficient memory skills. Low working memory is...
497
01:28Conduct Disorder
461
Conduct disorder is a complex mental health diagnosis characterized by a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior that violates societal norms, the rights of others, or age-appropriate rules. The diagnostic criteria for conduct disorder require the presence of at least three problematic behaviors within the past 12 months, with at least one occurring in the past six months. These behaviors are grouped into four categories: aggression toward people and animals; destruction of property;...
461