Early identification of children with developmental delay and behavioural problems according to parents concerns in the Republic of Serbia

Abstract

The main goal of this research was to describe the type and level of parents' concerns about child development and behaviour according to the PEDS test (Parents' Evaluation of Developmental Status). The sample included 289 parents of children from three to seven years of age, from two preschool institutions in Serbia. A significantly high correlation was determined between parents' general concerns and expressed concerns with regard to behaviour ((2)=17.86, df=2, p lt .001) and getting along with others ((2)=22.57, df=2, p lt .000). A marginally significant correlation was determined between parents' general concerns and manifested concerns with regard to fine motor skills ((2)=5.90, df=2, p=.052), as well as expressive language ((2)=5.858, df=2, p=.053). According to the criteria of PEDS test, this research identified 56.4% of children whose development needed to be monitored, 27.7% of children who needed to be referred for detailed diagnostic procedures, and 1.7% who needed to be included in treatment or special education support.