The psychological effects of incontinence in children

Background: This article describes findings from a collaborative project between ERIC (Education and Resources for Improving Childhood Continence) and the Children of the Nineties study, also known as ALSPAC (The Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children) examining the causes and consequences of childhood wetting and soiling. Aims: One of the project aims was to examine the prevalence of daytime wetting, bedwetting and soiling in children aged around seven years in the ALSPAC cohort and to investigate whether children who suffer from wetting and soiling have a higher risk of psychological problems. Methods: Parents completed postal questionnaires assessing common childhood psychological problems, and children were asked about behaviour, friendships, bullying and self- esteem in clinic-based interviews. The rates of psychological problems were compared in children with and without wetting and soiling. Results: Children who suffered from wetting and soiling were at increased risk of psychological problems (especially oppositional and conduct problems) compared to controls. Conclusion: It is important that clinicians treating children with wetting and soiling are aware that these children may be at increased risk of psychological problems.