NCJ Number
190161
Date Published
May 2001
Length
6 pages
Annotation
Based on a large longitudinal study of Queensland (Australia) children, this study examined the development of aggression in the children and its relationship to delinquency over time.
Abstract
The Mater University Study of Pregnancy (MUSP) is a unique Australian data set. It has prospectively collected data on mothers' and children's health from the period of antenatal care to when the children were in early adolescence. The large size of the cohort allows assessment of the relative importance of key predictors of adolescent antisocial behavior. Of the 8,458 women who agreed to participate in the study, 7,600 gave birth to a live baby at the study hospital. Child characteristics were measured at age five, including aggression. Three outcome measures were used in the study: maternal reports of adolescent aggression, delinquency, and adolescent contact with other services at age 14. The study found that aggression in the preschool years was a powerful predictor of continuing adolescent aggressive behavior, delinquent behavior, contact with agencies that dealt with delinquents, and suspension from school. Preschool aggression was manifested in frequent arguing, demanding a lot of attention, destruction of their own and others' possessions, disobedience, fighting, dishonesty, frequent screaming, sudden changes in mood, stubbornness and sullenness, and temper tantrums. In discussing policy implications, the authors recommend parent management training. 4 tables and 24 references