Abstract
Objective:
The aim of the study was to determine emotional and behavioral problems of over 271 000 children that currently work in the industrial sector (TUIK,2006) and compare the data to the ones from similar studies.
Method:
The research was cross sectional and descriptive in design and was conducted consistent with systematic sampling model. Ninety children who worked in 1053 mechanic shops at Ivedik Organised Industrial Region were included. Interview form for the collection of data and Self Assessment Scale for Adolescents aged 11-18 were used. Collected data was computerised and analysed.
Results:
It was found that depressive symptoms, internalizing and externalizing problems among working children were higher when compared to other studies. It was also found that there was a higher rate of opposition and defiance against rules and behavioral problems in these children.
Discussion:
Activity, academic and socializing sub test scores of working children were lower than those obtained from other studies while scores from subtests compatible with DSM-IV, internalizing and externalizing problems were higher than that of children with similar age groups measured by same tests. Although in different proportions, it was found that the majority of these children were exposed to physical, emotional and sexual abuse.
Keywords: Working Children, Problematic Behavior, Risk Factors
