Abstract: Objective To explore the status and influencing factors of mental health problems in preschoolers in rural areas of Shandong Province, and provide theoretical foundation for intervention. Methods A self-designed questionnaire of children's condition and Children Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) for parents were used to investigate 699 preschoolers aged 3 to 5 years in countryside. Results The abnormal prevalence of emotional and behavioral problems in the investigated preschoolers was 29.76%. The abnormal prevalences of SDQ were as follows: emotion symptom, 4.33%; morality problem, 9.76%; hyperactivity problem, 11.12%; peer intercourse problem, 6.16%; and social behavior, 12.85%. The abnormal prevalence of SDQ in male children on morality problem was higher than that in female children (χ²=14.38, P<0.05). The abnormal prevalence of SDQ in left-behind children on emotional and behavioral problems was higher than that in non-left-behind children (χ²=4.07, P<0.05). The results of logistic regression showed that the risk factors of emotional and behavioral problems in guardians were ignoring the healthy lifestyle, feeling burdened or less energetic to raise children, ignoring children's complaints and allowing children to eat while watching TV. Conclusion The prevalence of emotional and behavioral problems is high in preschoolers, so more attention should be paid and efficient intervention should be considered.

Key words: Preschoolers, Influencing factors, Mental health