Abstract:

INTRODUCTION: Early detections of deviations from normal child development, detection of underlying risk factors and early treatment is crucial. In this study, we aimed to assess the development of children by Denver II test and the associated socioeconomic factors. METHODS: A total number of 179 children attending to Zeynep Kamil Maternity and Childrens’ Diseases Training and Research Hospital were included in this study and Denver II Developmental Screening Test was performed. Detailed prenatal, natal and postnatal history was collected. Physical and neurological examinations were performed. Socio-economic level of the family and the child’s developmental stages were recorded. RESULTS: The high socioeconomic level was associated with higher rates of normal Denver scores, early neurodevelopment, higher percentages of being working mother, higher duration of breastfeeding. Children watching television more than two hours had higher incidence of abnormal and suspicious results. There was no statistical difference in Denver scores based on gender (p>0.05). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: In this study, we found that children’s socio-economic level greatly affects the test results. Easy modification like; to encourage breastfeeding, the allocation of time to talk to the child, reduction of the child’s television viewing time, reduction of usage of a walker, will positively affect the development of children.

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