Social skills of pre-school children and problem behavior and examination of peer relationships according to socio-demographic variables

Preschool period is important in shaping the behavior of individuals in the future. Therefore, it is important to make determinations about social skills, problematic behaviors and peer relationships in preschool children. The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between the social skills of preschool children, problem behaviors and peer relationships according to socio-demographic variables. The research is organized in relational screening model. In accordance with the purpose of the research, a questionnaire was prepared and applied within the scope of the field research. As part of the research, 180 questionnaires were sent to e-mail via Google Drive Form. A total of 385 questionnaires returned from teachers filled in. Accordingly, interviews were conducted through 385 questionnaire forms. The study group was given an "Introductory Information Form", "Social Skills Assessment Scale (4-6 Years)", "Behavior Problems Scale: Preschool Behavior Problems Screening Scale (BPS)" and "Child Behavior Scale (CBS)". According to the findings, a negative and statistically significant relationship was found between the social skills and problematic behaviors of children. While there is a statistically significant and positive relationship between the social behavior sub-dimension and social skills, there is a negative and statistically significant relationship between the sub-dimensions that are considered negative in peer relations and social skills. While there is a negative and statistically significant relationship between the sub-dimension showing social behaviors and problematic behaviors, there is a statistically significant and positive relationship between the negative dimensions in the peer relations and problematic behaviors. Keywords: Preschool, social skills, problem behaviors, peer relations