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Contribution title Behavioral problems in Tunisian school-age children: Frequency and related factors
Contribution code D3.075
Authors
  1. Asma Guedria Fattouma Bourguiba Hospital- University of Monastir Presenter
  2. Nadia Maatallah Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital- University of Monastir
  3. Randaline Ayoub University Hospital Fattouma Bourguiba Monastir Tunisia/University of Monastir
  4. Hela Ben Abid University Hospital Fattouma Bourguiba Monastir Tunisia/University of Monastir
  5. Maha Ajmi Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital- University of Monastir
Form of presentation Poster
Topic
  • T14 - Conduct disorders
Abstract Aims:
Behavioural problems in school-age children are a major concern for parents and teachers, because of their immediate and long-term academic and social repercussions. Hence the interest in studying the frequency and factors associated with the onset of behavioral disorders among school-age children in Monastir (Tunisia).
Methods:
We carried out a cross-sectional study, by administering the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) scale and an information sheet to parents of 435 school children in a sample of 18 public and private schools randomly selected from 6 delegations in the governorate of Monastir.
Results:
We included in our study 435 children: 207 boys (47.6%) and 228 girls (52. 4%). Their ages ranged from 6 to 15, with a median of 9. Behavioural problems were present in 28.7% (121) of students with two peaks of frequency at ages 7 and 9 (5.5%) and it decreases with age. Hyperactivity scores were high in 47 students (10.8%).
There was a slight male predominance of behavioural problems (57.9%) compared to female students (42.1%) with a statistically significant association (P=0.009; OR=0.56; 95% CI [0.37;0.87]). The presence of marital conflict or parental separation was significantly associated with the onset of behavioral problems (P < 10-3; OR=4.93; CI [2.86; 8.51]). Socio-economic level was low in only 3.2% of cases, and there was no statistical link with the presence of behavioral problems among students (P=0.061).
Conclusion:
The frequency of behavioral problems in children varies depending on demographic characteristics. It seems to be influenced by environmental factors. It is therefore interesting to target these aspects in treatment and prevention programs.