Risk Factors for Scholastic Backwardness in Children.

ABSTRACT

Aim: To identify the risk factors for scholastic backwardness in children. Participants: Children in the 6-12 year age group attending regular schools and referred to the child guidance clinic for scholastic backwardness. Setting: Tertiary care hospital in South India. Methods: Participants were compared with an age-and sexmatched group of children with good academic performance, to ascertain risk factors for scholastic backwardness. Results: There were 75 boys and 35 girls in the study group. Among them 30 (27%) children had mental retardation, 39 (36%) had borderline intelligence and 12 (11%) had microcephaly. Undernutrition was noted in 36 (33%) children and 31 (28%) had stunted growth. 28 (26%) children had a history of chronic medical problems like epilepsy, bronchial asthma and congenital heart diseases. Visual, hearing and speech defects were present in 6 (6%), 5 (5%) and 12 (11%) children, respectively. Statistically significant differences were noted in the educational level and employment status of parents of children with scholastic backwardness and those with good academic performance. Conclusion: Social and family factors have a significant influence on the academic functioning of children.