Association Between Childhood Behavioral Problems and Parental Military Active Duty Status: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of the 2017-2021 National Survey of Children’s Health

= 0.008), even after adjustment for selected covariates. Lastly, children of parents with prior military service had increased odds of both behavioral problems (adjusted OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.19-1.57) and being bullied (adjusted OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.08-1.31). Conclusions Parental military service was associated with increased risks of behavioral problems and risk of being bullied in U.S. children. Although we are unable to determine causation from this analysis, our findings support current literature highlighting the need for further research aimed at understanding the mechanisms and potential long-term health impacts of military service on child behavior. Behavioral health screening and early intervention programs could help to address emerging psychological and emotional challenges in this vulnerable population.