Prevalence of Emotional and Behavioral Difficulties and Associated Factors Among Adolescents with Divorced or Separated Parents in Vietnam: A cross-sectional study using the SDQ-25

Abstract

Objectives: This study evaluates the prevalence of emotional and behavioral difficulties using the SDQ-25 self-report version and identifies factors associated with these difficulties among adolescents in urban Vietnam with divorced or separated parents.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study with 309 participants, collecting data through a self-administered questionnaire featuring the SDQ-25 self-report version for assessing emotional and behavioral difficulties.

Results: Findings indicated that 17.5% of students experienced emotional and behavioral difficulties. Among them, 15.2% had both emotional symptoms and peer issues, while 14.9% faced conduct problems, 12.3% showed prosocial behavior, and 9.4% experienced hyperactivity/inattention. Multivariable logistic regression showed that the duration since parental divorce or separation (OR = 4.34; 95% CI: 1.37 - 13.75; p = 0.013) and involvement in physical fights (OR = 2.58; 95% CI: 1.00 - 6.64; p = 0.049) were significant predictors of mental health issues in these adolescents.

Conclusions: The study found a notable prevalence of emotional and behavioral difficulties among adolescents from divorced or separated families, who face a higher risk of these disorders. The length of time since parental divorce or separation and engagement in physical fights were identified as significant predictors of these issues.