Melike TAŞDELEN BAŞ, Birsel MOLU, Funda ÖZPULAT
Global Nursing Insights - 2026;13(1):28-35
Aim: This study aims to examine the relationship between sleep habits and behavioral problems among preschool-aged children in the post-COVID-19 pandemic period. Given the limited literature on the long-term effects of the pandemic on child development, this research seeks to fill an important gap, particularly within the context of Türkiye. Material and Methods: This was a cross-sectional, descriptive study. Data were collected via an online survey completed by parents of children aged 3 to 6 years attending preschools (n = 203). Children's sleep habits were assessed using the Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ), while their behavioral characteristics were evaluated through the Preschool Behavior Questionnaire (PBQ). Results: The mean total CSHQ score was 45.74 +/- 6.57, indicating that a majority of participants were at clinical risk for sleep problems. According to PBQ scores, the most commonly reported behavioral issues were aggressive behaviors and hyperactivity-inattention. Furthermore, significant and positive correlations were found between PBQ total scores and several CSHQ subscales, including parasomnias, sleep anxiety, bedtime resistance, and daytime sleepiness. Conclusions: The findings reveal that both sleep disturbances and behavioral problems became more prevalent among preschool children in the post-pandemic period. The strong association between disrupted sleep patterns and behavioral maladjustment underscores the need for comprehensive intervention programs that support children's psychological and developmental well-being. These results are critical for understanding the long-term developmental impact of the pandemic and for informing the development of preventive strategies.
