Predictors of child’s health in war conditions: the Lebanese experience

Abstract

Objectives: Children living under war conditions are affected directly and indirectly. This study investigates the physical and mental health of children in Lebanon in relation to war events and mediating factors. At the time of the initial data collection, little was known of the parental and environmental factors affecting child mental and physical well-being during war. In light of current research, a secondary analysis was conducted to further examine the influences on the health of children in war environments. Method: The secondary analysis was conducted on data from a stratified random sample of 2752 households in Beirut during the civil war (1975-1990). Based on reports from mothers, their health, child’s health (ages 3-12) and stressors faced by the family were assessed. Results: High percentage of children experienced physical, psychological and interpersonal problems. Multiple regression analysis showed that parental and environmental factors predicted health of the child during war. Conclusion: In accordance with current research, life events, mother’s mental health and family resources were strong predictors of child’s mental health. Psychosocial preventive interventions focusing on family resources and the mental health of mothers and children are paramount to help safeguard the well-being of the children in times of war.