Growth of Forms and Functions of Aggression in Youth

University Of Kansas Lawrence, Lawrence KS

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Aggression has been conceptually distinguished into various functions (e.g., instrumental versus reactive) and forms (overt versus relational), but only recently has a methodological and analytic approach been developed that adequately disentangles these components of aggression. The proposed research will extend this approach by examining instrumental and reactive functions (and secondarily, overt and relational forms) of aggression longitudinally from three complementary approaches: individual differences, intraindividual (i.e., growth) trajectories, and person-centered. Relations with relevant constructs (i.e., depression, emotional dysregulation, victimization, and peer rejection) will be examined, and potential moderation by gender, grade, and ethnicity will also be systematically explored.