Correlates of Prosocial Behaviour in Children and Adolescents Accessing Outpatient Psychiatry

Background: Adolescent psychiatric illness is a serious health problem, though the prosocial behaviours of patients presenting with internalizing concerns has gained little attention. The purpose of this study was to explore prosocial behaviours and their correlates in adolescents accessing outpatient psychiatry in a cross-sectional exploratory study. Methods: A survey was administered to patients on their first appointment to outpatient psychiatry. Results: Participants’ (N = 51) reported prosocial behaviours were positively associated with self-care in the final model; bivariate negative associations were evident between prosocial behaviours and attachment problems and peer problems. Conclusions: Adolescent patients might benefit from a clinical focus on self-care, in particular, maintaining positive connections with others.