Effect of Family Communication Pattern on Aggressive Behavior of Preschool Children in Zagazig City

Abstract

Background: Aggressive behavior is one of the most common behavioral issues. The family is a child's central and essential living environment. Furthermore, child’s development is greatly influenced by the communication patterns of their family, especially during the critical preschool years.

Aim of the study: was to explore the effect of family communication pattern on aggressive behavior of preschool children in Zagazig city.

Subjects and Methods: Research design: A cross - sectional descriptive research design was used to carry out this study.

Setting: This study was carried out at four governmental nursery schools in Zagazig city.

Subjects: The study sample was consisted of 365caregivers and their preschool children selected randomly by using a stratified multistage sampling technique.

Tool of data collection: Data was collected by using three tools: Tool (I): An interview questionnaire. Tool (II): aggressive behavior scale. Tool (III): family communication pattern instrument.

Results: more than half of the preschool children had high level of aggressive behavior, and the most common type was physical, followed by verbal aggression. Additionally, more than sixty percent of the preschool children had poor level of family communication pattern.

Conclusion: Poor communication pattern has adversely impact on children behavior and increase their aggression. Moreover, parents' age, and mother work were negative predictors of aggressive behavior of children, while father education, residence in rural, family size, and income were positive predictors of aggression among them.

Recommendation: Behavioral skills training programs to preschool children to prevent aggressive behavior. Health education interventions and counseling sessions directed to parents about behavioral modification, appropriate parenting practices, and how to manage aggressive behavior of their children.