Systematic review and meta-analysis found higher levels of behavioural problems in male left-behind children aged 6-11 years.

Aim: Left-behind children (LBC) now account for more than 1 in 5 Chinese children, and they often suffer from behavioural problems when their parents leave their rural homes to seek work in urban areas. The primary aim of this meta-analysis was to compare the incidence rates and factor scores of behavioural problems in LBC, who now account for more than one-fifth of Chinese children, and non-LBC.

Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis explored the children's characteristic behavioural problems using the Achenbach Child Behaviour Check List. A subgroup analysis was conducted to compare the different behavioural problems of LBC with different characteristics. The meta-analysis assessed 1405 papers and analysed 13 papers from 2007 to 2015, covering 10 264 LBC and 8909 non-LBC from 2 to 19 years of age.

Results: The incidence rates of behavioural problems were higher in LBC than non-LBC. The highest risks were noted in boys aged between 6 and 11 years of age, who were more likely to be withdrawn and be affected by somatic complaints, schizophreniform disorder, compulsive behaviour and depression.

Conclusion: Interventions and policies are urgently needed to tackle behavioural issues among LBC, especially high-risk males aged 6-11 years.