Early Prevention of Conduct Problems

Early Primary Prevention of Conduct Problems

The purpose of this study is to examine the immediate and long-term effects of a prevention program in children at risk for developing conduct problems and antisocial behavior.

Participants are randomly assigned to a year-long family-based intervention or to a no contact control group. The intervention focuses on improving parenting practices, parent-child interactions, and child social competence.

Children are assessed at the beginning of the study and again after one year. The development of conduct problems, social competence, and school functioning is assessed from second through fifth grade. Assessments are made through observations, parent and teacher ratings, and diagnostic interviews.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Sibling of youth adjudicated in Family Court