Gender Differences in Adaptive Behavior among Children and Adolescents: Evidence from the USA

Abstract

Information on possible gender differences in adaptive behavior may add to our understanding of practical and functional behaviors that are fundamental to daily living. This study examined gender differences in adaptive behavior using standardization data drawn from the Adaptive Behavior Assessment System-II (N = 2,139). Differences in adaptive behavior were noted for children and youth aged 5 to 17 years, with girls displaying relatively higher levels of adaptive performance across the majority of skills measured. Implications and possible mechanisms for these findings are discussed. Key Words: Adaptive behavior, ABAS-II, gender differences