Prevalence of Hostile Behavior Among School-Age Children in Al-Najaf Governorate

Background: Hostile behavior in children, characterized by aggression, anger, and a desire to harm others, is a significant concern in educational and developmental settings. It can negatively impact a child's social relationships, emotional well-being, and academic performance. Several factors, including family dynamics, school climate, peer relationships, and societal influences, contribute to the development of hostile behaviors. In conflict-affected regions like Iraq, the prevalence of hostile behavior among school-age children is likely exacerbated by factors such as exposure to violence, social instability, and cultural influences. Despite its importance, the extent of hostile behavior in Iraqi schoolchildren, particularly in Al-Najaf Governorate, remains insufficiently studied.Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of hostile behavior among school-age children in Al-Najaf Governorate and to explore its association with demographic factors such as age, gender, education level, and family structure.Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study design was used, involving a non-probability convenience sample of 384 children aged 7 to 12 years attending elementary schools in four districts of Al-Najaf Governorate. The data was collected using a two-part questionnaire: the first part gathered sociodemographic information, and the second part was an 18-item scale assessing hostile behavior symptoms. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and odds ratio tests, with a significance level set at p < 0.05.Results: The study found that 51.8% of children exhibited symptoms of hostile behavior. Females (53.8%) showed a slightly higher prevalence of hostile behavior compared to males (50.6%), although males were 1.4 times more likely to be at risk for hostile behavior symptoms. A significant relationship was found between age and the level of hostile behavior symptoms (p = 0.02), but no significant relationship was observed with other demographic factors (gender, education level, and family structure) according to the ANOVA test (p > 0.05). The eta effect size for all demographic factors was weak.Conclusion: The study concluded that hostile behavior is prevalent among school-age children in Al-Najaf Governorate, with a higher incidence observed in females, though males were more likely to be at risk. The weak association between demographic factors and hostile behavior suggests that additional factors beyond age, gender, and education level may contribute to the development of these behaviors. The study recommends the establishment of a hostile behavior prevention committee in schools to address the contributing factors and implement effective intervention programs.