English summary: CHILDREN RECEIVING BENEFITS DUE TO MENTAL OR BEHAVIOURAL DISTURBANCES IN 2000-2007

Background

During the 20th century the number of allowances given to children aged 0 to 15 for prolonged care requirements due to sickness or disability has decreased. During the same period the number of children needing special education or taken into custody has increased. The purpose of this study was to analyse the changes in the burden of mental and behavioural disorders in children and adolescents aged 0 to 15.

Method

The registers of the Social Insurance Institute were analysed from 2000 to 2007 to identify changes in the number of children that were granted benefit due to their mental or behavioural disturbance (F diagnosis).

Results

The number of children granted benefit due to mental or behavioural disorders increased by 24%. Boys were granted benefit twice as often as girls in all age groups. The absolute and relative largest increase was observed for the diagnosis of hyperkinesia (1133 children, 183% increase).

Conclusions

The registers do not allow us to explain the observed results, The reasons may range from improved diagnostic and rehabilitation possibilities to true increase in mental and behavioural disturbances.