Objective: Behavioral problems constitute a wide range of childhood problems. Acquiring information regarding the behavioral problems in children with cerebral palsy is essential to identify and manage such problems and to promote psychological and mental health services for children with cerebral palsy. The purpose of this study was to describe behavioral problems in children with cerebral palsy.

Materials & Methods: In a cross-sectional study, 90 children with cerebral palsy, aged 4 to 12 years, referred to rehabilitation centers in Tehran in 2011, were selected by convenient sampling method. Children were assessed using parent version of Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, chi-square and logistic regression tests were used for analyzing the data.

Results: The findings showed that the prevalence of behavioral problems in children with cerebral palsy was about 43.3 percent. According to sub-groups of diagnostic class of Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, the highest prevalence belonged to peer problems (82.2%) and the lowest prevalence was related to hyper activity problems (4.4%). There was a significant difference between IQ level, GMFCS level and Total Difficulties Scores (P<0.05).

Conclusion: As significant proportion of children with cerebral palsy suffers behavioral problems, specific educational and therapeutic programs are recommended.