[Stereotypic movements in children]

ABSTRACT

To study the prevalence of Stereotypic Movements [SM] in children. Using a multistage sampling method, we selected 300 children from 13 day care centers and primary school in Urmia [Western Azerbaijan Province]. Data collection involved parent interviews in the presence of the children. Three hundred children [167 boys and 133 girls] were included in the study. Nearly 50% [149 out of 300] had one type of SM. The prevalence of different type of stereotypic movements were as follows bruxism 16%, head banging 13%, hair pulling 8%, nail biting 7% and thumb sucking 6%; each of the affected subjects had only one type of SM. There were not any significant relationships between sex and various SM varieties- except for heads banging, which was more common in boys [P<0.001]. There were no significant associations between parents' education or occupation and the presence of any type of SM [P>0.04]. The prevalence of Stereotypic Movements is high in children. To confirm the findings more comprehensive studies are recommended