Prevalence of Behavioral and Emotional Problems among Omani Children as Predicted by Some Demographic Variables

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the prevalence of behavioral and emotional problems in children in Oman and demographic variables correlated with these. A random sample of 200 pupils from grades 1-4 in the Governorate of Muscat was selected using the OMBEP measure (Al Said, Birdsey, & Stuart-Hamilton, 2012). Multiple linear regression analysis showed three variables are able to predict emotional and behavioural problems including: the educational level of the father (only when it is below bachelor's degree), the number of hours spent watching T.V., and grade 3 (children in grade 3 are more likely to experience the negative effects of emotional and behavioural problems as compared with children in other grades). However, there are variables that have a positive role in reduction of behavioural and emotional problems. These are: the mother's educational level when it is a bachelor's degree, the existence of a nursemaid, and the effect of having first grade education.

Keywords

• Prevalence rate, behavioral and emotional problems, Omani children.