ERIC Number: ED281664
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 1987-Apr
Pages: 16
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Problem Behaviors in Young Children.
Zahn-Waxler, Carolyn
Early personality and environmental characteristics that predict later problematic aggression and depression in children were investigated longitudinally. A developmental psychopathology approach was taken. (This approach assumes that patterns of adaptation and maladaptation in development can best be understood when explored simultaneously and with a focus on individual variability.) A total of 50 children 2 years of age were observed on three occasions in interactions with a familiar peer in a laboratory setting. Patterns of undercontrol and overcontrol were observed, as were positive social skills. Children's social skills and problems were observed 3 years later in peer interaction settings, and psychiatric and psychological evaluations were conducted. Half of the sample had mothers ill with depression. Findings revealed that high levels of aggression and dependency at the age of 2 were significant predictors of antisocial behavior and depression when children were 6 years old. Patterns of prediction were strongest for aggression. But precursors of later depression were also identifiable in children's very early play patterns, and significant relations between aggression and depression were found. Problematic behaviors were more frequent and stable over time for boys than for girls. Maternal depression was a major correlate of continuity of behavior problems over time. Concluding remarks present a working model of early personality development and suggest directions for future research. (Slides accompanied the presentation of this paper; appended are a chart and six bar graphs analyzing behaviors depicted in four slides.) (RH)
Publication Type: Reports - Research; Speeches/Meeting Papers
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A