Work

Behavioural and Emotional Symptoms Did not Increase During the COVID‐19 Pandemic in Swedish Preschool Children

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: AIM: This study investigated whether behavioural and emotional problems among 3-year-olds increased during the COVID-19 epidemic in Sweden, a country that kept preschools open during the whole pandemic. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study including 71 917 children in the Stockholm region whose parents had completed the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) prior to a routine well-baby clinic visit at age 3 years during 2018-2023. Multivariate linear regression was used to compare change in SDQ measures over time, and to compare change for children who attended preschool with children in home care in a difference in differences approach. RESULTS: Mean and high scores on total as well as specific SDQ scales remained the same before, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic for the children who attended preschool. For the children in home care the mean total estimate increased by 6.0% during the pandemic, compared with children attending preschool, with the highest increase for emotional symptoms, 14%, but gradually returned to the pre- COVID-19 level when the pandemic measures were lifted. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest a beneficial effect of the Swedish COVID-19 policy on behavioural and emotional symptoms of preschool children, with particular importance of keeping preschools open.

Source: Acta Paediatrica

DOI: 10.1111/apa.70410

Authors: Anders Hjern, Malin Bergström, Anncharlotte Lindfors, Kersti Bergqvist, Luis Rajmil

Institutions: Karolinska Institutet, Sachs' Children and Youth Hospital

Language: English

Topic: COVID-19 and Mental Health

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,480