Abstract
In this study we examined the videotaped family interactions of a community sample of adolescents and their parents. Youths were assessed in early to late adolescence on their levels of antisocial behavior. At age 16-17, youths and their parents were videotaped interacting while completing a variety of tasks, including family problem solving. The interactions were coded and compared for three developmental patterns of antisocial behavior: early onset, persistent; adolescence onset; and typically developing. The mean duration of conflict bouts was the only interaction pattern that discriminated the 3 groups. In the prediction of future antisocial behavior, parent and youth reports of transition entropy and conflict resolution interacted to account for antisocial behavior at age 18-19. Families with low entropy and peaceful resolutions predicted low levels of youth antisocial behavior at age 18-19. These findings suggest the need to study both attractors and repellers to understand family dynamics associated with health and social and emotional development.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 331-352 |
Number of pages | 22 |
Journal | Nonlinear Dynamics, Psychology, and Life Sciences |
Volume | 16 |
Issue number | 3 |
State | Published - Jul 2012 |
Keywords
- Antisocial behavior
- Coercion theory
- Entropy
- Nonlinear dynamics
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Applied Mathematics