Understanding Mechanisms of Change in the Development of Antisocial Behavior: the Impact of a Universal Intervention

• Published in: Journal of abnormal psychology (1965) Vol. 33; no. 5; pp. 521 - 535
• Main Authors: van Lier, Pol A. C., Vuijk, Patricia, Crijnen, Alfons A M
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 01-10-2005
• Subjects: Antisocial behaviour; Intervention; Peer groups; Peer rejection; Preventive programmes
• ISSN: 0021-843X

The association between the development of antisocial behavior, affiliation with deviant friends, & peer rejection was tested with a preventive intervention; 664 boys & girls were randomly assigned to a universal classroom-based intervention targeting disruptive behavior or a control condition. Peer nominations of antisocial behavior, friends' antisocial behavior, & peer rejection were assessed annually for 4 years. A high, a moderate, & a stable low antisocial behavior trajectory were identified. Large reductions in antisocial behavior were found among intervention children who followed the high trajectory. These reductions coincided with affiliations with nondeviant peers & with decreases in peer rejection. The affiliation between deviant & nondeviant peers was initiated by nondeviant children. The results support a causal role of deviant friends & peer rejection in the development of antisocial behavior. The implications for our understanding of the mechanisms leading to reductions in antisocial behavior are discussed. 4 Tables, 1 Figure, 70 References.