Patterns of Problem Behavior in Relation to Thrivi

Authors: Mary I Campa Catherine P Bradshaw John Eckenrode David S Zielinski

Publish Date: 2008/01/15

Volume: 37, Issue: 6, Pages: 627-640

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Abstract

Several studies have indicated that an early onset of delinquent and problem behaviors is associated with a greater risk of subsequent behavioral and mental health problems This study builds on that literature by examining histories of behavior problems in relation to indicators of thriving and precocious behavior during late adolescence Using longitudinal data from 289 highrisk adolescents participants were classified according to their problem behavior histories at ages 15 and 19 Findings indicated that although some adolescents experienced decline over time in their overt behavior problems those youth showed fewer indicators of thriving when compared to adolescents with no history of behavior problems Youth with an earlier onset of behavior problems also evinced an increased risk for precocious behavior Gender differences and implications for prevention through youth development programming are discussedThis research was supported by grants from the Prevention Research Branch of the National Institute of Mental Health R01MH49381 the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation US Department of Health and Human Services 96ASPE278A and the Childrens Bureau US Department of Health and Human Services 90CA1631 The findings and statements contained in this article are the views of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views or perspectives of the US Department of Health and Human Services the National Institutes of Health or the National Institute of Mental Health Dr Zielinski’s work on this article occurred prior to his joining the National Institute of Mental Health

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