Preschooler’s Behavior Problems and Relating Factors in Poverty Group

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between caregivers’ child rearing characteristics including discipline method, child rearing confidence, attitude, burden, attachment, and cognitive stimulation and preschooler’s behavior problems in poor, urban group.

Method: A cross-section study design was used. Conveniently selected one hundreds and three preschool aged children and their caregivers who are under National Security Act were recruited. Data was collected using Korean Child Behavior Checklist (K-CBC) comprised of nine sub-dimensions and caregivers’ self report questionnaires.

Results: Caregivers’ discipline method was associated with behavior problems of child. The internalizing and externalizing behavior problem scores including aggressive behavior of children who experienced spanking were significantly higher than children who did not. In addition, Caregivers’ child rearing confidence also showed associations with the children’s behavior problems. Child behavior problems showed positive relationships with caregivers’ child rearing burden, and negative relationships with child rearing attitude, attachment, and cognitive stimulation.

Conclusion: Caregivers’ negative discipline methods and low child rearing confidence showed significant relationships with children’s behavior problems of poor, urban children. Nurses working in primary care and community-based settings are in key positions to address this problem and improve the parenting attitude of low-income caregivers and positively affect the behavior of their children.