Profiles of Problematic Behaviors Across Adolescence: Covariations with Indicators of Positive Youth Development

• NCJ Number: 247038
• Journal: Journal of Youth and Adolescence Volume: 43 Issue: 6 Dated: June 2014 Pages: 971-990
• Author(s): Miriam R. Arbeit; Sara K. Johnson; Robey B. Champine; Kathleen N. Greenman; Jacqueline V. Lerner; Richard M. Lerner
• Date Published: June 2014
• Length: 20 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Previous analyses of data from the 4-H Study of Positive Youth Development (PYD) have examined concurrent trajectories of positive development and risk/problem behaviors among adolescents, finding complex and not necessarily inverse relationships among them.

Abstract

In this article, the authors expand on prior research by employing a person-centered approach to modeling risk behaviors, assessing development from approximately 6th grade through 12th grade among 4,391 adolescents (59.9 percent female). Latent profiles involving the problematic behaviors of delinquency, depressive symptoms, substance use, sexual activity, disordered eating behaviors, and bullying were then assessed for concurrent relationships with the Five Cs of PYD: Competence, Confidence, Character, Caring, and Connection. The authors found six latent profiles, based primarily on mental health, aggression, and alcohol use, with significant differences in Confidence levels among many of the profiles, as well as some differences in the four other Cs. The authors discuss directions for future research and implications for application to youth policies and programs. Abstract published by arrangement with Springer.