Behavior problems of preschool children from low-income families: Review of the literature

Research on the prevalence of behavior problems in preschool children from low-income families, and the risk factors associated with these behaviors, was reviewed. A systematic search of studies conducted between 1991 and 2002 yielded a total of 30 research reports that met all of the preestablished criteria. These studies yielded several findings. Children from low socioeconomic status (SES) backgrounds were found to have a higher incidence of behavior problems as compared to the general population. Behavior problems were associated with multiple risk factors found in these children's lives related to child, parent, and socioeconomic characteristics. The results are discussed in terms of implications for early identification and intervention and directions for future research.