Child Health Nurs Res.  2013 Apr;19(2):140-148.

A Study on Obesity and Behavior Problems in Elementary Children Living in Poverty

• Cho KM
• Kim EJ

Abstract

PURPOSE
The aim of this study was to explore the relationship of being from low-income families on children's behavior problems and obesity.
METHODS
The research design was a descriptive survey study, and the participants were 197 children from low-income families who took part in activities at a local children's center. They were selected through convenience sampling. The participants completed a questionnaire, BASC-2 (Behavior Assessment System for Children).
RESULTS
The results are as follows: 22.3% had obesity, a rate higher than that of children in general. Further, 37.3% had attention deficit problems, 33.8% had problems adapting to school and 49% had other adaption problem. There was a gender-specific difference with respect to all of the behavior problems.
CONCLUSION
The results of this study indicate a lack of an identified child policy for behavior problems and health, and suggest a need for various programs and policies which could lead to development of behavior screening programs for children from low-income families.

Keyword

Obesity; Behavioral problems; Poverty

MeSH Terms

Child
Humans
Mass Screening
Obesity
Poverty
Research Design
Surveys and Questionnaires