Distinguishing the early-onset/persistent and adolescence-onset antisocial behavior types: From birth to 16 years

Abstract

Moffitt's theory regarding two types of adolescent antisocial behavior was investigated using a prospective, longitudinal study of normal and abnormal development in a primarily low socioeconomic status, ethnically diverse sample. Results supported the presence of an early-onset/persistent (EOP) group and an adolescence-onset (AO) group. Groups were most reliably and significantly distinguished by indices of socioemotional history within the first 3 years, but no significant differences were found on early measures of temperament or neuropsychological functioning. EOPs scored significantly lower than other groups on measures of neuropsychological functioning only during late childhood and adolescence, suggesting that the declines in verbal functioning that have been so reliably found in this and other samples of early-starting antisocial adolescents are progressive and consequent to adverse experience. In adolescence, AOs were significantly more likely to report high levels of internalizing symptoms and life stress, suggesting that AO antisocial behavior is not a benign phenomenon. Implications of these findings for etiologic theories of adolescent antisocial behavior are discussed.

Neurocognitive elements of antisocial behavior: Relevance of an orbitofrontal cortex account

“…For example, Aguilar, Sroufe, Egeland, and Carlson (2000) failed to find neurocognitive differences between early onset and adolescent limited trajectories in early childhood, but were able to detect differences in later childhood. An alternative explanation is that the measurement of early neurocognitive function may not pick up mild problems which, as Blair et al suggested, may compound other abilities over time.…”

Conduct problems trajectories and psychosocial outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

“…Concomitant risk factors in adolescents with conduct problems include high-risk sexual behaviour, high levels of academic difficulties, and substance use [18,19]. Regarding CL individuals, previous research showed that risk factors are similar to those seen in EOP such as maltreatment, family conflict, and maternal maladjustment [4,20] but present with lower levels compared to EOP. CL individuals in adolescence have normal levels of conduct problems and some studies showed remission of peer rejection and emotional difficulties, suggesting that this group has relatively normal outcomes in adolescence [21].…”

Randomized trial of a family-centered approach to the prevention of early conduct problems: 2-year effects of the family check-up in early childhood.

“…Early starters represent approximately 6% of the population but are responsible for almost half of adolescent crime and three fourths of violent crimes (Offord, Boyle, & Racine, 1991). Results from longitudinal studies tracing the development of antisocial pathways indicate that child (e.g., male status), family (e.g., rejecting parenting), and sociodemographic (e.g., poverty) factors all play an important role in its early origins (Aguilar et al, 2000).…”