Association between Demographic Profile with Behavioral and Emotional Problems in Children Affected by Flash Floods and Landslides in Nagari Tanjung Sani, Tanjung Raya District, Agam Regency

Abstract

The disaster that occurred in July 2023 in Nagari Tanjung Sani, Tanjung Raya District, Agam Regency caused significant damage and potential short and long-term psychological impacts for children, who are vulnerable to trauma. This study aims to determine the association between demographic profile with behavioral and emotional problems in children affected by flash floods and landslides in Nagari Tanjung Sani. The study used a cross sectional design with a total sampling method from children after flash floods and landslides in nagari tanjung sani, totaling 58 children. Tracked mental emotional disorders in children and adolescents aged 4-18 years using the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire. Respondents participated are consisted of 30 females (52%) and 28 boys (48%), with most of the respondent was 39 childrens being school-aged (<11 years old). Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) results showed 2 (3%) respondents experienced issues in the emotional component with majority respondent showed normal levels in the mental difficulties component. There was no association between demographic profile of the children with the SDQ strength and difficulties scores. This study highlights the importance of early detection and intervention to support children's mental health after disasters. More attention is needed from medical personnel and the community to address mental-emotional problems arising from disaster trauma, to prevent long-term impacts on the social and academic development of these children. Keywords: Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, Demographic Profile, Disaster, Emotional problem.