Background: Direct and indirect effects of the COVID-19 pandemic led to a significant change in the lives of children and adolescents. Changes in psychosocial behavior are one of them and are least noticed by parents and caregivers.
Objectives: This study aimed to assess the mental and behavioral changes in children and adolescents of India before March 2020 and during the COVID-19 pandemic by Pediatric Symptom Checklist -17 (PSC-17).
Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted through an online questionnaire-based survey on children and adolescents of age group (5 -17 years) from 1st July to 15th July 2021 in India. Data were collected from parents regarding socio-demographic status, the behavior of study participants before and during the pandemic, and their perspective for the same. For statistical analysis chi-square test and the Mcnemar test was used.
Results: Overall, 17.14% (77) of the study population scored positive during the covid pandemic on the total PSC-17 score. Participants residing in a metropolitan city, having nuclear family, and having no siblings were affected more as compared to others. The proportion of positive I scores (≥5), A score (≥7), E score (≥7) &total score (≥15) before and during COVID-19 were statistically significant among children.
Conclusion: The psychological health of children and adolescents should be regularly screened by caregivers and teachers as early recognition and steps taken for it may help mitigate deleterious effects in the future.