[Externalizing problem behavior with friends in adolescence: What role do factors of callous-unemotional traits play?]

Introduction: Affective impairments/disorders are one explanation as to why adolescents exhibit externalizing problem behavior (rule-breaking and dissocial behavior). Impaired affect is a core feature of callous-unemotional traits (CU traits). CU traits are composed of three factors: Callousness (lack of empathy and remorse), Uncaring (indifferent attitude toward task performance and the feelings of others), and Unemotional (superficial or flattened affect). Externalizing problem behaviors mostly occur in groups during adolescence. Therefore, it is important to consider the relationship between CU traits and externalizing problem behaviors that are exhibited explicitly in collaboration with or in the presence of friends. This perspective has been lacking in research on CU traits. The present study aims to fill this research gap.
Methods: Self-report data were collected between June 2021 and March 2023 from N = 169 adolescents (54% female; M = 14.95 years) using a set of questionnaires that could be completed online or as a paper-pencil version. In addition to CU traits (ICU) the set of questionnaires included assessments of rule-breaking and dissocial behavior with friends (CBCL: YSR 11-18 R).
Results: Only the subscale Callousness contributes to the explanation of externalizing problem behaviors with friends (6% variance explained).
Discussion: The results indicate that the three factors of CU-traits should be considered separately. In addition, when examining externalizing problem behavior, one should consider whether it is exhibited alone or together with or in the presence of friends. Limitations of the study, ideas for further research, and practical implications are discussed.
(© 2024. The Author(s).)