From self-control capabilities and the need to control others to proactive and reactive aggression among adolescents

J Adolesc. 2009 Jun;32(3):455-66. doi: 10.1016/j.adolescence.2008.08.006. Epub 2008 Oct 23.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the associations between aspects of control (self-control capability and the need to control others) and forms of aggression (reactive and proactive). Data were derived from a structured questionnaire administered to 660 male and female adolescents with an average age of 14.99 years, from two urban schools in northern Israel. Findings demonstrate a negative association between the need to control others and the capability to control the self. Findings also show that proactive violence is especially associated with high need to control others, whereas reactive violence is linked more closely to low self-control capability. The effects of gender and age on control and aggression factors are also shown. Findings are discussed on both the behavioral and the motivational levels.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Age Factors
  • Aggression / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Impulsive Behavior / psychology*
  • Internal-External Control*
  • Israel
  • Juvenile Delinquency / psychology*
  • Male
  • Motivation
  • Personality Inventory
  • Psychology, Adolescent*
  • Risk Factors
  • Schools
  • Self Concept*
  • Sex Factors
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Violence / psychology*