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Published on: March 1, 2019
The interaction between self-regulation and motivation prospectively predicting problem behavior in adolescence
Jessica D Rhodes1, Craig R Colder, Elisa M Trucco
1a Department of Psychology , University at Buffalo.
Summary
This study explored how self-regulation and motivation interact to predict adolescent problem behaviors. Findings show specific links between motivation levels, self-regulation, and delinquency or depressive symptoms in early adolescence.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Adolescent Psychology
Background:
- Existing research often examines self-regulation and motivation in isolation.
- Recent theories suggest integrated neural systems underlie adolescent behavior.
- Understanding these interactions is crucial for addressing adolescent problem behaviors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the interaction between self-regulation and motivation (approach/avoidance) in predicting adolescent outcomes.
- To test prospective associations with delinquency and depressive symptoms.
- To align with contemporary neural-systems based theories.
Main Methods:
- A community sample of 387 adolescents (ages 11-13) participated.
- Laboratory tasks assessed self-regulation and motivation.
- Adolescent self-reports measured depressive symptoms and delinquency.
Main Results:
- Low approach motivation linked to high depressive symptoms, but only with high self-regulation.
- High approach motivation linked to high rule-breaking, but only with low self-regulation.
- Significant moderational effects were observed (p < .05).
Conclusions:
- Findings support integrated models of motivation and self-regulation in adolescent behavior.
- Interaction models better explain problem behaviors than isolated constructs.
- This research advances neural-systems based theories of adolescent development.
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