Developmental trajectories of externalizing behavior problems in childhood and youth: A study on theoretically relevant predictors

• In Event: DLC Investigations of Social Factors Predicting Persistence, Desistance, and Change

Abstract

The increase of longitudinal studies in developmental and life course criminology and methodological advances in growth curve modeling led to numerous studies on different trajectories and pathways. Systematic reviews of more than 100 studies typically revealed 3-5 criminal pathways (Jennings & Reingle, 2013). These authors suggested that research should go beyond the description of criminal pathways, but address broader behavior characteristics and investigate theoretical relevant explanations. Accordingly, we studied a sample of 675 children from preschool age to youth on the development of externalizing behavior problems using data from multiple informants. Applying general growth mixture modeling, we found five trajectories that indicated both stability and change in problem behavior (Stemmler & Lösel, 2015). We analyzed factors that may predict and partially explain these different developments, e.g. social factors (SES, parenting behavior, family stressors) and personality factors (e.g. intelligence, impulsivity, resting heart rate). There were a number of significant differences, particularly between the groups with persistently high vs. low externalizing problems, but also between others. Theoretical explanations, e.g. Moffitt’s (1993) concept, will be discussed.

Authors

• Doris Bender, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg

• Friedrich Loesel, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg / University of Cambridge

• Mark Stemmler, Institute of Psychology, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg

• Susanne Wallner, Institute of Psychology, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg