ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the epidemiological research on childhood behaviour disorder and argues that this disorder is not a clinical entity but the tail end of a spectrum of behaviour. Other examples of disorders with these epidemiological characteristics include hypertension (high blood pressure), high cholesterol and alcohol misuse. There is strong theoretical and research evidence to suggest that these disorders are more effectively prevented using a 'population' rather than a high-risk or secondary prevention approach.
Parent training programmes have been used by the statutory services (social, health and education) in both high-risk and secondary preventive approaches for some years. The research evidence showing that programmes are effective in these settings is strong. At present, the voluntary sector is the main provider of parent training using a population approach. Preliminary and qualitative and observational studies suggest that these are also effective in a population setting, but no trials have been carried out.
Childhood behaviour disorder is now the most common cause of disability in childhood and there is good evidence to suggest that it is an important risk factorfor many common disorders of adolescence and adulthood, including mental illness, family violence, and unhealthy lifestyles. The most promising solution to this twentieth century epidemic is parent support and training for all parents. More research is needed to define which types of programmes should be provided and how.
