Stability of behavioral and emotional disturbance in a sample of disadvantaged preschool-aged children.

Abstract

This study is concerned with the long-term stability of behavioral and emotional disturbance among preschool-aged children. In conjunction with a large screening project, 111 Head Start children were rated by their teachers on the Preschool Behavior Questionnaire. Follow-up ratings were obtained 12 months later. Results indicated that hostile/aggressive behaviors were quite stable and that subjects demonstrating a preponderance of such problems were likely to maintain their symptoms over time. In contrast, subjects exhibiting anxiety-rekated behaviors were significantly more likely to improve spontaneously during the normal course of development.