Personality Dysfunction and Behavioral Disturbance in Early Adolescence

This study examines the prevalence of personality disturbance in a nonclinical sample of young adolescents and the relationship between personality functioning and behavior problems. Sixty-three adolescents, initially screened at age 10 using teacher and parent behavior rating scales, were assessed at age 13 by means of a semistructured psychiatric interview. In addition, their parents and teachers again completed behavior rating scales. The findings indicate a prevalence in the population of 54% who are clear of personality disturbance, 19% who display marked disturbance, and 27% who display some disturbance. Disturbance in personality functions was found to be associated with increased anxiety and depression, school difficulties and interpersonal withdrawal. Behavior indicative of conduct problems and hyperactivity did not differentiate the clear, moderately disturbed, and markedly disturbed adolescents.