Adaptive and behavioral problems in children aged 5-12


ÖZKAN S., Durukan E., İŞERİ E., AYCAN S., Aygün R.

Gazi Medical Journal, cilt.17, sa.3, ss.152-156, 2006 (Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Derleme
  • Cilt numarası: 17 Sayı: 3
  • Basım Tarihi: 2006
  • Dergi Adı: Gazi Medical Journal
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Scopus, TR DİZİN (ULAKBİM)
  • Sayfa Sayıları: ss.152-156
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: Behavioral problems, Primary school children, Turkey
  • Gazi Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

Purpose: To determine the frequency of family-reported behavioral problems in children aged 5-12 attending kindergarten or the 1st-5th grade of primary schools located in Ankara city center. Materials and Methods: Eleven primary schools in Ankara city center were selected and a survey form distributed to 7042 students for their parents to complete. 5988 of these forms were returned by the parents. The rate of participation was 85%. Results: 50.1% of the study subjects were male. According to the family reports, 76.5% (n=4851) showed at least one behavioral problem. When hyperactivity was excluded, it decreased to 59.4%. Hyperactivity was reported in 44.6% and excessive fear of something in 16.8%. Nail biting was reported in 14.0%. Encopresis and daytime enuresis were reported in 2.2% and 2.1%. respectively. The frequency of behavioral problems was higher in males and in the left-handed (p<0.05). Conclusion: The results of this study are solely derived from the questionnaires completed by the families. The next planned stage of the study was to have a specialist evaluate and, if necessary, treat the children whose families have reported behavioral problems.