Your Child's Strengths and Difficulties: How We Know if Play Therapy Will Help Your Child Thrive

As a parent, you want the best for your child, including their emotional and mental well-being. One effective tool to evaluate your child's mental health is the Goodman's Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). In this guide, we'll explore what the SDQ measures, why it matters, and how to fill it out to get the most accurate insights.

What is the Goodman's SDQ?

The Goodman's SDQ is a concise behavioural screening tool that evaluates the emotional and behavioural health of children and adolescents. Developed by Professor Robert Goodman, the SDQ is widely used in clinical and research settings. It consists of 25 straightforward questions focused on different aspects of a child's emotional and behavioural health.

Parent completing the SDQ form on a tablet

The questions are categorised into five scales:

1. Emotional Symptoms: This scale addresses feelings of sadness, anxiety, and other emotional difficulties. For instance, if your child often expresses feelings of worry or fear, this scale helps quantify those emotions.

   
   

2. Conduct Problems: This section evaluates behaviours marked by defiance or disruptiveness. If, for example, your child frequently argues with adults or engages in fights, this aspect of the SDQ helps you understand the severity of those actions.

   
   

3. Hyperactivity: This scale assesses attention span, activity levels, and impulsiveness. Research indicates that about 5-7% of children may show symptoms of ADHD, so this section can help identify potential concerns.

   
   

4. Peer Relationship Problems: Here, the questionnaire measures your child's ability to make and maintain friendships, as well as interactions with peers. Noticing if your child struggles to connect with classmates can be vital.

   
   

5. Prosocial Behaviour: This scale looks at kindness, empathy, and consideration for others. Does your child help others without being asked? This area is key to understanding their social strengths.

   
   

Each of these scales offers insights that contribute to a well-rounded view of your child's well-being.

Why is the SDQ Important?

Understanding your child's mental health is critical in today’s fast-paced world. The SDQ serves multiple purposes: it is a diagnostic tool and a communication bridge between parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals.

By identifying potential challenges early, you can initiate interventions sooner, leading to better long-term outcomes. For example, studies have shown that early intervention like PTUK play therapy can lead to improvements for 76% of cases.

Additionally, the SDQ sheds light on your child's strengths. Children are not solely defined by challenges; their attributes—such as empathy and kindness—are equally significant. Recognising these positives can boost their self-esteem.

How to Fill Out the SDQ as a Parent

Filling out the SDQ can feel overwhelming, but breaking it into steps makes it manageable.

Step 1: Gather Background Information

Before diving into the questionnaire, collect essential information. Note your child's age, any recent life changes like a move or a family event, and any specific observations regarding their behaviour over the last month. For instance, if your child has recently changed schools, consider how that may have affected their mood and interactions.

Step 2: Create the Right Environment

Choose a calm and quiet space to complete the questionnaire. This might be your living room or a cozy corner in your home. Make sure you can focus, free from interruptions, as this will allow you to reflect accurately on your child's behaviour.

Step 3: Understand the Questions

Take time to review each question carefully. Each statement is designed to be straightforward. For instance, consider the question, “My child often has temper tantrums.” Reflect on how frequently this occurs and the context around these incidents.

Step 4: Consider the Time Frame

Remember, the questions refer to behaviours and feelings "over the last month." Think back on the past weeks. Were there significant events, such as holidays or changes in the family dynamic, that may have altered your child’s behaviour?

Step 5: Answering the Questions

Each question offers three options: "Not True," "Somewhat True," or "Certainly True." Choose the option that best reflects your perception of your child's behaviours. Being honest is crucial for accurately assessing their well-being. View the SDQ as a snapshot in time, not a diagnosis.

What Happens Next?

After completing the SDQ, it’s important to discuss the results with your therapist and they will evaluate the scores changing over time so they can track progress. At interim review, share insights about your child and explore options for additional support or resources based on the findings.

A high score in certain areas does not always indicate a serious issue. Instead, the SDQ should guide meaningful conversations and inform a comprehensive evaluation of your child's well-being during the episode of therapy.

Final Thoughts on Your Child's Well-Being

Filling out the Goodmans SDQ is more than just another task; it is an opportunity to gain valuable insights into your child's emotional and behavioural health. By engaging with this tool, you reinforce your commitment to their well-being.

Regular check-ins on mental health are essential. The SDQ serves as a great conversation starter that fosters ongoing discussions about feelings and behaviours within your family. Understanding your child's emotional landscape cultivates a nurturing and supportive environment where they can thrive.