Emotional-Behavioral Problems in Hearing-Impaired Children and Caregiver Burden: A Correlational Study

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

1 Demonstrator of Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Zagazig University, Egypt.

2 Professor of Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Zagazig University, Egypt.

3 Professor of Audio-Vestibular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Egypt.

4 Lecturer of Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Zagazig University, Egypt.

Abstract

Background: Hearing impairment (HI) can significantly affect children’s communication, education, and social interactions. These challenges, in turn, increase caregivers’ stress and anxiety, leaving caregivers emotionally drained and exhausted from managing the child’s needs. Aim of the study: To examine the correlation between emotional-behavioral problems (EBPs) in hearing-impaired children and caregiver burden. Subjects and methods: Research design: A descriptive correlational design was utilized. Setting: The current study was performed at the Phoniatrics Unit, Audio Vestibular Unit, and ENT Outpatient Clinic at Zagazig University Hospitals. Subjects: A purposive sample of 110 caregivers of hearing-impaired children was recruited. Tools of data collection: Three tools were utilized to collect the required data: (1) A structured interview questionnaire covering demographic and clinical characteristics of studied participants; (2) the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ); and (3) the Zarit Caregiver Burden Interview (ZBI). Results: The findings showed that 72.7% of hearing-impaired children had abnormal EBPs (mean SDQ score = 21.08 ± 5.81). More than half (52.7%) of caregivers experienced moderate to severe burden (mean ZBI score = 47.61 ± 13.63). A statistically significant positive correlation was found between children’s EBPs and caregiver burden. Conclusion: Emotional behavioral problems are prevalent in hearing-impaired children and are accompanied by moderate to severe caregiver burden. Recommendation: Early intervention programs, alongside communication training, social and financial support, and behavioral therapy, are essential to improve the outcomes for both children and their caregivers.


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