Behavioral Problems among Children Aged 6–10 Years: A Comparative Analysis of Working and Non-working Mother's Perspective

A descriptive correlational study was conducted in an urban community of Kerala with an aim to assess and compare the behavioral problems of children aged 6–10 years of working and non-working mothers as reported by them. Hundred mothers (50 working and 50 non-working) who met the inclusion criteria were selected using systematic random sampling. Data was collected using a structured Child Misbehavior Severity Index rating scale. The results revealed that, no children were reported to have moderate or severe behavioral problems. However, majority 49(98.00%) of children of working mothers and 48(96.00%) of children of non-working mothers had mild behavioral problems. There was statistically no significant difference between behavioral problems of children among working and non-working mothers. From the study, it is concluded that irrespective of the maternal employment, the present day children are having behavioral difficulties which needs a greater attention by health professionals at the earliest.