Relations and Communication in Families of Children With Externalizing Behavior Problems

Abstract

Numerous studies have confirmed the connection between the family climate and various forms of externalizing behaviour problems, such as aggressive and violent behaviour, vandalism, skipping school and running away from home, substance abuse and others. Therefore, it is of particular importance to point out those risk factors, that according to the results of empirical studies are predictive for the occurrence and development of behavioural problems. This study shows the results of the research which aimed at determining the characteristics of family relationships in the families of children with externalizing behaviour problems. The sample consisted of 135 students, both gender, 11 to 14 years of age. Apart of the instruments for assessing emotional, social and behaviour problems of children and youth (ASEBA-YSR) was used for the evaluation of externalizing behaviour problems, while the FACES IV scale package was used to determine the quality of family relationships and communication within families. The results showed that students with externalizing behaviour problems live in the types of families where the quality of family relationships is low and which is characterized by poor connectivity and adaptability, poor communication and dissatisfaction.

Relationship between Family Flexibility and Substance Use Disorders among the Youth in Selected Rehabilitation Centres in Nairobi County, Kenya

“…From the 62 items, only family flexibility is measured using items 2,5,6,8,11,12,14,17,18,20,23,24,26,29,30,32,35,36,38,41 and 42. During scoring, family flexibility is measured using subscales such as family balanced represented by items 2,8,14,20,26,32 and 38.…”

The Relationship between Family Characteristics and Adolescent Perception of the Quality of Family Communication

“…Similarly, difficulties in communicating with parents may increase anxiety in children [40]. The results of the study examining the characteristics of family relationships in families of children with externalizing behaviour problems [39] showed an association between externalizing behaviour problems in adolescents and poor family communication.…”

“…This is confirmed by numerous studies linking the quality of family communication to various adolescent developmental outcomes. The poor quality of family communication is associated with the development of internalized [34][35][36] and externalized problems in children and adolescents [34,[37][38][39]. For example, adolescents who reported poorer communication with their parents also reported lower levels of parental support, which was positively related to the adolescents' depressive difficulties [34].…”