FURTHER VALIDATING PROFILES OF IMPULSIVE AGGRESSION IN YOUTH

Abstract

Prior work identified distinct latent profiles of youth with common principal components between all data sets being aggression with impulsivity and reactivity (AIR), rule-breaking, mania, and depression. Our objective is to characterize youths with AIR by exploring associations between AIR and behavior inhibition and approach system (BIS/BAS), callous-unemotional traits and family history (FH), as well as caregiver’s mood symptoms. We also discuss neuropsychological differences between youth with AIR and those with other profiles. Univariate ANOVAs established correlations between parent/youth reports on the BIS/BAS scale and the established profiles with the principal components. Bivariate correlations and ANOVA explored associations and differences in severity between AIR component scores and Antisocial Process Screening Device (APSD) scores. Univariate ANOVAs, correlations, χ2 tests, and t tests examined correlations between the caregiver’s mood symptoms and FH with youth’s symptoms, including AIR. Univariate ANOVAs identified patterns across psychopathology profiles, and bivariate correlations evaluated relationships between psychopathology and 13 neuropsychological measures. Profiles that included AIR and/or ADHD and manic symptoms showed greater positive associations with BAS and negative associations with BIS, when compared to a profile characterized by depression. The AIR profile was most associated with impulsivity and narcissism, but not with callous-unemotional traits. Caregiver’s mood symptoms were highest in youths with mixed bipolar symptoms and/or AIR, and showed correlations with AIR, mood problems, and self-harm. FH of mood disorders was correlated with mania, depression, and AIR even though the AIR profile was distinct from mania or depression. Profiles with high hyperactivity/impulsivity, AIR, and severe mood symptoms showed faster response to emotional words, when compared to profiles with mild symptoms and depression. These analyses provide additional evidence for AIR being distinct from mood and attention problems. Profiles that include AIR symptoms possess unique characteristics, which may help differentiate them from other profiles.