Sociodemographic caracteristics and mental disorders in homeless child and adolescents in shelter Medellin, Colombia

Abstract

Objective: To describe the demographic characteristics and prevalence of some mental disorders in children and young people attending the Street Shelter in Medellin (Colombia).

Methodology: cross sectional study in a sample of 148 children and adolescents who were assessed sociodemographic and determined the prevalence of some mental disorders by structured interviews specifically for this age group (MINI KID).

Results: The mean age was 14.8 years and 85.1% were made by men. The most common reason for being on the street was the domestic abuse (43.2%). 50% had at least 24 months dwelling on the street. 85.8% had any mental disorders evaluated was the most prevalent drug dependence (58.1%), followed by conduct disorder (54%) and oppositional defiant with 49.3%.

Conclusions: The prevalence of mental disorders in children and young people in the street was similar to that reported in other countries in this same population. It was found that was the most prevalent drug dependence and the leading cause of homelessness was abuse.