Statistics Canada
Symbol of the Government of Canada

Children’s behaviour linked to home life

Warning View the most recent version.

Archived Content

Information identified as archived is provided for reference, research or recordkeeping purposes. It is not subject to the Government of Canada Web Standards and has not been altered or updated since it was archived. Please contact us to request a format other than those available.

Most Canadian children are in good physical and emotional health and have no social or behavioural problems. However, some experience social and academic difficulties.

According to the 2002/2003 NLSCY, 4% of children aged 8 to 11 had learning disabilities in 2002. These children were slightly more likely to suffer from anxiety and emotional disorders than children without learning disabilities. Children with learning problems also scored higher on a scale of aggression and other conduct disorders. A child’s age and sex did not affect these results.

Slightly different results were observed with regard to altruism or positive social behaviour. Children with learning disabilities scored lower on average than other children, but the gap narrowed when age and sex were taken into consideration.

A positive home life can partly compensate for the difficulties faced by children with learning problems. For example, children from homes where parenting styles are ineffective have higher levels of aggressive behaviours and conduct disorders, anxiety, and emotional disorders. They also obtain lower scores for altruism and positive social behaviour.

The bonds with their parents also influence a child’s mental well-being. The 2000/2001 NLSCY shows that young people who report greater degrees of closeness, affection and understanding with their parents exhibit fewer symptoms of depression.