Multiproblem young adults present with major problems across key life domains, but empirical studies investigating the nature of multiproblem behavior in accordance to ecobiodevelopmental theory... Show moreMultiproblem young adults present with major problems across key life domains, but empirical studies investigating the nature of multiproblem behavior in accordance to ecobiodevelopmental theory are scarce. To address this gap, we performed a cluster analysis on indicators spanning the key life domains addiction, mental health, social network, and justice. In a large sample (N = 680) of multiproblem young adults, we identified five subgroups labeled "severe with alcohol and cannabis problems" (4.3%), "severe with cannabis problems" (25.6%), "severe without alcohol or drug problems" (33.2%), "moderate with mental health problems" (22.9%), and "moderate without mental health problems" (14.0%). There were large differences between the severe and moderate groups in terms of childhood risk factors such as emotional and physical abuse, concerning baseline functioning such as comorbid disorders and aggressive behavior, and in the outcome measure of violent offending. Our findings indicate that multiproblem young adult behavior clusters within profiles that differ according to the severity and nature of problems. Investing in screening for clustered problems may be beneficial for early problem differentiation and selection of appropriate intervention before and during treatment programs. Show less
Simons, I.; Mulder, E.; Breuk, R.; Rigter, H.; Domburgh, L. van; Vermeiren, R. 2019
Background: To compare childhood arrestees with matched comparison groups on levels of autistic symptoms and to assess the unique predictive value of autistic symptoms for future delinquent... Show moreBackground: To compare childhood arrestees with matched comparison groups on levels of autistic symptoms and to assess the unique predictive value of autistic symptoms for future delinquent behavior in childhood arrestees. Methods: Childhood first-time arrestees (n=308, baseline age 10.7±1.5years) were followed up for 2years. Autistic symptoms, externalizing disorders and delinquent behavior were assessed yearly. Childhood arrestees were compared on autistic symptoms with matched (age, gender) general population and clinical autism spectrum disorder samples. The predictive value of autistic symptoms for delinquent behavior was analyzed using generalized estimating equations. Results: At each assessment, levels of autistic symptoms in childhood arrestees were in between levels found in the general population and autism spectrum disorder samples. Autistic symptoms were positively associated with delinquent behavior in childhood arrestees, even after adjustment for externalizing disorders: IRR (incidence rate ratio) 1.23; 95% CI 1.11–1.36 and IRR 1.29; 95% CI 1.15–1.45 for core autistic symptoms and total symptom score, respectively. Conclusions: Autistic symptoms are more prevalent in childhood arrestees compared to the general population and are uniquely associated with future delinquent behavior. Attention should, therefore, be given to the possible presence of autism related symptomatology in these children. Implications for diagnostic assessment and intervention need further investigation. Show less
