Prevalence and predictors of emotional and behavioral problems among rural school Egyptian adolescents

BACKGROUND: Emotional and behavioral problems among adolescents are common
problems in developing and developed countries with a great impact on their health and
wellbeing. The OBJECTIVE is to determine prevalence, predictors and impact of emotional
and behavioral problems among rural adolescents’ school children.
METHODS: A cross sectional study with multistage random sample was taken from Giza
governorate rural school students aged 13 to 17 years during the academic year 2012-2013. A
sample of 476 students was selected. Psychological assessment was conducted using selfreported
strengths and difficulties questionnaire (SDQ).
RESULTS: The study showed that 18.5% of students had behavioral problems with the highest
proportion in emotional problems followed by conduct problems, hyperactive problems and
lastly peer relations. Abnormal impact score was found in 13.7% of studied students. Students
from private school, at secondary educational grade, with separated or dead parent and
frequently punished at school were significant predictors of behavioral problems.
CONCLUSIONS: Students from private schools, secondary education, with separated or dead
parent, and frequently punished were at higher risk to have behavioral abnormalities than others.
School teachers need proper training on how to communicate properly with their adolescent
students aiming to avoid frequent punishments.