Determinants of psychosomatic complaints in Swedish schoolchildren aged seven to twelve years.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate determinants of psychosomatic complaints (PSC) in children. The model assumes that variables are working on three levels: the proximal level (the child), the intermediate level (the family), and the distal level (the society).

METHODS

Data were obtained from a large cross-sectional survey on children's health and well-being in the Nordic countries. A questionnaire was sent to the parents of a representative sample of 1,163 Swedish children aged seven to 12 years. The analysis included a multivariate analysis using the LISREL program.

RESULTS

The best predictors of PSC were the mother's health, the child's mental stability, contacts with peers, and long-term illness/disability. There were many other important relationships, which act via factors, such as school satisfaction, social competence, activities, the parents' sense of coherence, and family economy.

CONCLUSION

PSC in children should be seen in the context of all three levels.