Abstract: Objective The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to examine the prevalence of behavior problems and associated protective and risk factors among children aged 3 to 6 years in Huangpu district of Guangzhou. Methods A community-based sample of 1 170 children was assessed with the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire(SDQ), Behavioral Style Questionnaire(BSQ), Family Environment Scale(FES) and a self-administered questionnaire including demographic characteristicts and children′s pre-,peri- and postnatal condition. Results Totally 11.4%(134/1 170) children were rated as abnormal without significant gender differences. The most prevalent behavior problem was peer problem(23.2%), followed by hyperactivity(16.6%),conduct(11.8%),emotion(8.4%) and prosocial(8.4%). Multiple linear regression models explained 50% of the total variance of SDQ total difficulties score for children.Paternal educational,cohesion and intellectual-cultural orientation of family environment were significant protective factors against behaviour problems. Joint family,child′s medical history(congenital diseases,brain injury),temperamental low persistence, low adaptability, negative emotionality,low rhythmicity,high intensity and high activity were associated with higher SDQ total difficulties score (P<0.05). Conclusions This study is consistent with previously reported risk factors for child behavior problems, and supports the need for a focus on early intervention and prevention strategies in the child mental health field.