Behavioural Problems among the Adolescent Students in the Imphal Valley of Manipur

Background: Adolescence is a critical developmental period characterized by significant physical, emotional, cognitive, and social changes. During this stage, emotional and behavioural problems may emerge and adversely affect academic performance, interpersonal relationships, and overall well-being. Despite the growing recognition of adolescent mental health as a public health priority, evidence regarding behavioural problems among adolescents in north-eastern India, particularly Manipur, remains limited. The objective of the study is to assess the prevalence of behavioural problems among adolescent students in Manipur and examine their association with demographic and socio-economic characteristics. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 323 adolescent students selected through simple random sampling from three educational institutions in Imphal West district, Manipur. Behavioural problems were assessed using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), while socioeconomic status was measured using the Modified Kuppuswamy Socioeconomic Status Scale. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were used to analyse the data, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The findings revealed that 74.0% of participants were classified within the abnormal SDQ category, 18.3% were borderline, and only 7.7% were within the normal range. Significant associations were observed between behavioural problems and gender (χ² = 10.393, p = 0.006), age (χ² = 41.243, p = 0.001), and class of study (χ² = 31.712, p < 0.001). Female students demonstrated a significantly higher prevalence of abnormal behavioural scores compared with males. No significant associations were found between behavioural problems and parental marital status, family type, religion, place of residence, head of family, or socioeconomic status. Conclusion: A high prevalence of behavioural problems was observed among adolescents in Manipur. Gender, age, and educational level were significant determinants of behavioural difficulties. The findings highlight the need for routine mental health screening, school-based counselling services, and targeted interventions to promote adolescent psychological well-being.