Characteristics Associated With the Persistence of Antisocial Behavior: Results From Recent Longitudinal Research

• NCJ Number: 168564
• Journal: Aggression and Violent Behavior Volume: 2 Issue: 2 Dated: Summer 1997 Pages: 101-124
• Author(s): I J Elkins; W G Iacono; A E Doyle; M McGue
• Date Published: 1997
• Length: 24 pages
• Grant Number(s): DA 05147; AA 09367; AA00175
• Sponsoring Agency: US Dept of Health and Human Services; National Institute on Drug Abuse
• Publication Format: Article
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study reviews findings from recent longitudinal studies regarding characteristics that may predict continuity or discontinuity in antisocial behavior.

Abstract

Results from cross-sectional research are incorporated where longitudinal research is lacking, because most of the longitudinal studies that address persistence of antisocial behavior are still in relatively early stages. The review includes preliminary results from the Minnesota Twin Family Study, a population-based, longitudinal study of the development of substance abuse and associated psychological disorders. The authors conclude that compared to temporary antisocial behavior that ceases following mid-adolescence, persistent antisocial behavior in adulthood is associated with lower IQ and achievement, more pathological personality characteristics, greater substance abuse, early progression along developmental pathways of antisocial behavior, and increased risk for conduct disorder in offspring. In addition, the authors suggest that in the future, increased attention may be warranted for individuals with unusually late onsets of severe antisocial behavior in late adolescence or early adulthood, because these individuals apparently share many of the same negative characteristics in adulthood as individuals with early onsets prior to adolescence. 3 tables, 6 figures, and 82 references