Abstract
Concurrent and longitudinal relations among Canadian adolescents' problem behavior (PB), self-image, and peer relations were examined. The relationship of adolescents' perceptions of fun and risk with their PB also were explored. A total of 96 young adolescents (mean age at Time 1 = 11.6 years) completed questionnaires on four occasions spanning 3 1/2 years. Measures were PB (disobeying parents, school misconduct, substance use, antisocial behavior), self-image, peer relations (involvement, acceptance), and beliefs about the fin and risk of PBs. Mean-level analyses showed increases with age in disobedience, school misconduct, substance use, and peer involvement. Longitudinal increases in PB were associated with decreases in positive self-image and increases in peer acceptance and involvement. Beliefs about fun and risk predicted up to 56% of the variance in PB, with fun more consistently the significant predictor. Discussion focuses on the paradox that PB may have constructive and destructive functions.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 344-362 |
Number of pages | 19 |
Journal | The Journal of Early Adolescence |
Volume | 15 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Aug 1995 |
All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes
- Developmental and Educational Psychology
- Social Sciences (miscellaneous)
- Sociology and Political Science
- Life-span and Life-course Studies