Prevalence of Behavioral and Emotional Disorders Among Rural and Urban School Going Children and Adolescents

Background: The mental health of children and adolescents is a critical concern, with significant implications for long-term outcomes. This study aims to assess the prevalence of behavioral and emotional disorders among school-going children and adolescents in rural and urban areas of Meherpur District, Bangladesh, and to explore the socio-economic factors contributing to these disparities. Material & Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study was conducted among 435 school-going children and adolescents in rural and urban areas of Meherpur District, using purposive sampling. Data were collected through questionnaires and the Development and Well-being Assessment (DAWBA), with diagnoses generated according to ICD-10 criteria. Results: The study found that the prevalence of psychiatric disorders was slightly higher in rural participants (15.89%) compared to urban participants (14.03%), though the difference was not statistically significant. Major depressive disorder was the most common emotional disorder, affecting 3.74% of rural participants and 2.26% of urban participants. Hyperkinetic disorder was more prevalent in urban participants (2.71%) compared to rural participants (1.87%). Parental education, particularly maternal education, and occupational status were significantly associated with the prevalence of psychiatric disorders, with rural areas showing higher rates of illiteracy and agricultural occupation among parents. Conclusions: The findings suggest that while there are slight differences in the prevalence of psychiatric disorders between rural and urban populations, the socio-economic disparities, particularly in parental education and occupation, play a critical role in influencing these outcomes. Targeted interventions addressing these factors are essential for improving the mental health of children and adolescents in both rural and urban settings.