Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2026
07:15
Social Defeat Stress Model for Adolescent C57BL/6 Male and Female Mice
Published on: March 15, 2024
Problem behavior: the double symptom of adolescence
1Department of Psychology, University of Houston, TX 77204-5341, USA.
Development and Psychopathology
|February 24, 2001
Summary
Adolescent problem behavior is best understood as a "double symptom," reflecting unmet developmental needs. This perspective informs current interventions and future research in developmental psychopathology.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Adolescent Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Adolescent problem behaviors, including juvenile delinquency, are a significant concern.
- Understanding the historical context of interventions is crucial for current approaches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review conceptualizations of adolescent problem behavior.
- To evaluate the success of current interventions and historical prevention strategies.
- To propose future research and policy directions in developmental psychopathology.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and historical analysis.
- Examination of conceptual frameworks for adolescent problem behavior.
- Synthesis of research on intervention and prevention effectiveness.
Main Results:
- Adolescent problem behavior is complex, with historical roots in societal changes.
- Current interventions show variable success, necessitating refined strategies.
- A "double symptom" model, viewing behavior as meeting developmental needs, offers a productive framework.
Conclusions:
- Viewing adolescent problem behavior as a "double symptom" provides valuable insights.
- Historical context and developmental needs are critical for effective interventions.
- Future research should focus on developmental psychopathology informed by this dual perspective.
Related Concept Videos
02:04Bullying
A modern form of aggression is bullying. As you learn in your study of child development, socializing and playing with other children is beneficial for children’s psychological development. However, as you may have experienced as a child, not all play behavior has positive outcomes. Some children are aggressive and want to play roughly. Other children are selfish and do not want to share toys. One form of negative social interactions among children that has become a national concern is bullying.
01:18Cognitive Development During Adolescence
During adolescence, individuals experience significant cognitive development that enhances their understanding of others' emotions and thoughts, known as cognitive empathy. This period is marked by an increased ability to adapt to others' perspectives and a more nuanced understanding of others' mental states, a skill that is foundational for social problem-solving and conflict avoidance. The development of cognitive empathy relies heavily on the theory of mind — the recognition that people have...
01:17Erikson's Theory on Socioemotional Development during Adolescence
Erik Erikson's fifth stage of psychosocial development, "identity versus role confusion," is crucial during adolescence (ages 12 to 18). In this stage, adolescents face the developmental task of forging a distinct personal identity, a process influenced by social, psychological, and biological changes typical of this period. Adolescents naturally explore different roles, behaviors, and ideologies as they navigate complex questions of self-concept, asking, "Who am I?" and "What is my place in...
01:25Borderline Personality Disorder
Borderline Personality Disorder is a complex and multifaceted mental health condition characterized by pervasive instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, emotions, and impulse control. This instability manifests in extreme emotional reactions, fear of abandonment, and self-destructive behaviors. The disorder significantly impacts daily functioning, often leading to distress in both personal and professional domains.
Genetic and Environmental Contributions
Borderline Personality...
Genetic and Environmental Contributions
Borderline Personality...
01:30Oppositional Defiant Disorder
A persistent pattern of angry or irritable mood, defiant behavior, or vindictiveness characterizes Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). Symptoms must occur over at least six months, involve interactions with individuals beyond siblings, and meet specific diagnostic criteria to be clinically significant. The disorder affects emotional regulation, social interactions, and behavior, often manifesting early in life and influencing long-term development and functioning.
Diagnostic Criteria and...
Diagnostic Criteria and...
01:28Conduct Disorder
Conduct disorder is a complex mental health diagnosis characterized by a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior that violates societal norms, the rights of others, or age-appropriate rules. The diagnostic criteria for conduct disorder require the presence of at least three problematic behaviors within the past 12 months, with at least one occurring in the past six months. These behaviors are grouped into four categories: aggression toward people and animals; destruction of property;...