This study investigates the relationship between hair element status and problem behaviour in a sample of 237 children attending grades K through four in Victoria, British Columbia schools. Children were classified on the basis of behavioural status using the Walker Problem Behavior Identification Checklist. Logistic regression analyses were used in order to assess the degree of association between hair element status and behaviour. Two analyses were performed for each Walker scale, both of which used behavioural status as the response (dependent) variable.

In the first analysis, dummy variables corresponding to hair element status were forced into the model in order to identify elements which were significantly associated with behavioural status as measured on each scale. In the second analysis, these same variables were forced into the model along with social. and family factors. Comparison of the results from each analysis allowed for the identification of elements which were associated with behavioural outcomes before and after considering the effects of the other factors. Amongst all of the elements considered, calcium in particular appears to be of importance, with significant positive associations observed between 'law' hair levels of this macro-mineral and problem behaviour as measured by the Acting-Out, Withdrawal, Distractibility, and Total scales. With respect to specific behavioural problems, 'distractibility' may be the most affected by mineral status, with significant associations observed (both before and after consideration of the other factors) between problem behaviour of this type and low' calcium, 'high' manganese, and 'high' cadmium.