Objective As part of an extended, multicultural study, our purpose was to evaluate the psychosocial status and developmental disabilities of child immigrant and minority populations in Cyprus and compare them with the Greek-Cypriot children of the predominant host society.

Methods 560 parents completed Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaires, for children 4–13 years old, using Greek, English (UK) and Russian versions.

Results There was statistical difference between migrant-minorities and Greek-Cypriot children, only for peer relationship problems subscale (Chi-square = 18.643, 2df, p<0.001, see fig). Total difficulties score were 7.5% abnormal for immigrants and 5.9% for Greek-Cypriots. Emotional problems were abnormal 11.8% and 13.4% respectively, whereas conduct problems were abnormal in 13.7% for immigrant-minorities, and 9% for Greek-Cypriots. Hyperactivity/inattention were almost the same, 5.6% and 5.5%, respectively. Prosocial behavior problems were 5.1% for immigrants-minorities and 2.4% for Greek-Cypriots.

Conclusions Further study and analysis is needed to evaluate the factors involved, the etiology and the impact of the differences noted in order to provide adequate interventions.

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Figure 1

Dimitriou-Papavassiliou et al