Center for Applied Developmental Science
Biopsychosocial Mechanisms of the Development of Problem Behaviors in Early Adolescence
Project Team: Rainer K. Silbereisen, Karina Weichold
A dynamic interaction between biological, psychological, and social components that predicts development of maladaptive and adaptive behaviors during adolescence is postulated. Within this theoretical framework a pilot study was conducted on girls between 9-13 years and followed up to late adolescence and young adulthood. Results indicate that differences in pubertal timing (deviation from the norm regarding physical development) not only matter for adjustment during puberty but also have long-term implication for problem behaviors, relationship to parents and positive developmental outcomes.
