Freie beiträge: Verhaltensauffälligkeiten mit 9 jahren zur Vorhersage von Schulproblemen im alter von 11 und 15 Jahren

Behavioral problems in childhood are a risk factor for the development of psychological disorders and are associated with decreased academic achievements. The current study investigates whether lower psychological functioning at primary school age is associated with an increased risk of school problems in adolescence. Questionnaire-based data of the MAS-birth cohort (N = 1,314 at birth; 47.9 % girls, 52.1 % boys) was evaluated at the 9-year, 11-year, and 15-year follow-up. Psychological functioning of the dimensions psychological well-being, physical condition, social relationships, and functional capacity in everyday life at age 9 and school problems at age 11 and 15 were assessed. A lower functionality at age 9 significantly increases the risk of having school problems at age 11 (adjusted Odds Ratio [aOR] = 3.53, 95%Confidence Interval[CI] 2.20-5.66) and at age 15 (aOR = 3.22;95%CI 1.85-5.62). These associations are stronger for boys than for girls. Early signs of lower psychological functioning at primary school age seem to remain relatively stable over time and might be associated with school problems in adolescence.