ABSTRACT
Background: The current threat of Covid-19 pandemic is not only disrupting the economy but also creating psychological impact on the people. As a measure to control the spread, India imposed lockdown on various occasions. During this period only essential services were operational, while educational institutions remain closed. Due to social distance norms and restricted recreational activities, children are more prone to behavioural changes and it can also cause anxiety and depression. The current study focusses upon this aspect among school going children due to Covid-19.. Methodology: A cross sectional study was done on school going children, currently restricted to home. A semi-structured questionnaire which included (RCADS-25 scale for depression and anxiety) was administered to the parents through online platform. Bivariate logistic regression was used to test the significance of association between changes Impact of covid-19 and emotional status of Children and also between behavioural changes in children and presence of at least one sibling. Results: Majority of respondents were males (59%) and mean age was 9.9yrs. Majority (47.2%) belong to Middle school. Mean score of RCADS-25 scale was 15.61±9.4 for the study population. Worry was seen in 67.3% and frustration was seen in 32.4% for conduction of online classes. Irritability was seen 31.91% and restriction of outdoor activities caused loss of temper in 56.9% of the study population. Insomnia was often seen in 20% while 50% had sadness/empty feeling at some point of time. Lack of confidence was seen in 52.7% children. Majority (69.5%) were scared to sleep alone at night. Chi-square test for significance showed significant association between Parent’s behaviour and mood changes in Children (O.R- 2.43(1.1-5.33 - 95%C. I) p=0.04). Bivariate logistic regression showed significant association between Impact of covid-19 and emotional status of Children (O.R=2.967,95% C.I(1.582-5.564), p=0.001) and also between behavioural changes during pandemic and presence of at least one sibling(O.R =0.578,95% C.I 0.345-0.971,p=0.038). Conclusion: The behavioural changes of children due to Covid -19 is evident and necessary measures like counselling the parents are necessary