Behavioral Problems in Children with Epilepsy and Its Association with Types of Seizure: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study

Background: Epilepsy, a major neurological disorder, often causes behavioral issues in children due to neurobiological and psychosocial factors. These internalizing or externalizing problems heighten future mental health risks, highlighting the need for early detection and intervention. The objective of the study was to explore the types of behavioral problems in children with epilepsy and determine the types of seizure occurring in epilepsy. Methodology: This was hospital-based cross-sectional observational study conducted in Kanti Children’s Hospital, Pediatric Neurology Clinic from January 2020 to April 2021.We assessed children aged 6 to 14 using the Child Behavior Checklist in our pediatric neurology clinic. Data was analyzed with Assessment Data Manager to explore behavior problems in children with epilepsy and correlating it with types of seizure. Results: Out of 66 participants, 17 (25.6%) participants had clinical behaviour problems(T score>70). Majority of behavior problem were seen in participants with generalized seizure (22.6%). Males had higher T scores for anxiety and attention issues, while females had higher scores for social and thought problems. Male participants (n=47, 71.2%) outnumbered female participants (n=19, 28.8%). Conclusion: Our study identified significant behavioral issues in children with epilepsy, especially with generalized seizures. Males showed more anxiety and attention problems, while females had more social and thought issues, underscoring the need for early screening and counseling.