Problem Behavior Theory Research Articles

Longitudinal examination of marijuana use and physical teen dating violence: Antisocial peers and impulsivity as mediators

BackgroundPrior studies have shown that marijuana use is often associated with physical teen dating violence. However, few studies have examined the longitudinal mediating effects of associating with antisocial peers and impulsivity on this relationship. Also, few studies have estimated the cascading developmental impact of marijuana use and antisocial peer association, predicting the continued marijuana use and antisocial peer associations while considering the risk of impulsivity in physical teen dating violence. Thus, the current study utilized the problem behavior theory and an alternative path to physical dating violence to address these limitations. ObjectiveThe current study tested the longitudinal effects of marijuana use on physical teen dating violence and the indirect effects of antisocial peer association and impulsivity on this relationship (M = 12.29); 52.1 % of males and 47.9 % of females participated. MethodsAdolescents completed questionnaires at baseline and were assessed six months later (n = 836). Generalized structural equation modeling (GSEM) and cross-lagged mediation models were used first to analyze the direct effect of lifetime marijuana use on physical dating violence and antisocial peer association and impulsivity as potential mediators of this relationship. Then, the cross-lagged mediation models were used to estimate the alternative path to physical teen dating violence using lifetime marijuana use and antisocial peer association as predictors at baseline and continued antisocial peer association, marijuana use, and impulsivity at the subsequent wave as mediators. ResultsResults suggested that marijuana use at baseline was not positively associated with physical teen dating violence over time. The association with antisocial peers but not impulsivity mediated the relationship between marijuana use and physical dating violence. Cross-lagged mediation results suggested that marijuana use at baseline positively predicted antisocial peer association in the subsequent wave, which led to an increase in physical teen dating violence. Further, antisocial peer association at baseline is positively associated with continued antisocial peer association at the subsequent wave; thus, antisocial peer association is positively related to physical teen dating violence when controlling for depressive symptoms, family support, number of dates, and parental monitoring. ConclusionThese results suggest though marijuana use alone is not statistically associated with physical teen dating violence, it does increase the risk of antisocial social peer associations that could increase adolescents' likelihood to engage in physical teen dating violence. Further, the onset of antisocial peer association could persist over time, thus serving as a risk factor for physical teen dating violence over time.

Identifying Protective and Risk Factors for Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Among Young Adults in Korea: Insights From Problem Behaviour Theory.

This study aimed to identify protective and risk factors related to non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) behaviour among young adults in their 20s in Korea, providing an integrated perspective based on the Problem Behaviour Theory (PBT). The subjects were 650 young people in their 20s recruited through the promotion of mental health welfare centres in Seoul, Gyeonggi-do and Jeju-si in Korea. A self-report scale was used to measure NSSI and resilience, social support, self-compassion, childhood adversity, depression, anxiety and anger. The collected data were analysed using the SPSS 27.0 program, and hierarchical logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the protective and risk factors related to NSSI behaviour. As a result of this study, out of 650 participants, 107 (16.46%) were found to have experienced NSSI. The NSSI group was younger and had a higher proportion of females compared with the non-NSSI group. In addition, self-compassion was identified as a protective factor and childhood adversity and depression were identified as risk factors associated with NSSI behaviour. The lower the self-compassion, the higher the childhood adversity and the higher the depression, the higher the likelihood of NSSI behaviour. Based on the results, mental health services should be provided to young people with childhood adversity and high levels of depression, and efforts should be made to respond appropriately to self-injury crises. In addition, it is considered necessary to develop a program to increase the level of self-compassion to protect against the NSSI behaviour of young people in their 20s in Korea.

Assessment of a Second-Order Multi-Problem Factor Model Involving Sexual Partners, Marijuana Use, and Post-Arrest Placement Among Persistent Male Adolescent Delinquents

ABSTRACT Problem-behavior theory suggests problem behaviors (e.g. substance use and delinquency) cluster among adolescents. This study explored a second-order problem behavior model of marijuana use, sexual partners, and post-arrest juvenile justice system placement among male adolescents over three waves. Results confirmed a second-order latent factor of problem behaviors, with male adolescents persistently involved in the juvenile justice system experiencing problems with marijuana use, risky sexual behavior, and increased severity of post-arrest placement. Further, older, Hispanic, African American, and urban persistent male delinquents were more likely to demonstrate continued problem behaviors. We discuss implications for future research and practice.

Factors associated with out-of-school physical activity among Chinese children and adolescents: A stratified cross-sectional study

ObjectiveThis observational study examined the factors associated with the physical activity (PA) of children and adolescents outside of school within the framework of Problem Behavior Theory (PBT). MethodsThis cross-sectional study obtained data from 6528 children and adolescents aged 6–16 years recruited from ten schools in Shanghai, China. The questionnaire measured out-of-school PA and PBT-based correlates. A series of multiple linear regressions were used to explore the factors influencing children and adolescents' out-of-school PA separately. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to explore the association between the three systems of PBT and out-of-school PA. ResultsHigher intrinsic motivation is positively associated with increased PA for children (b = 1.038, 95%CI: 0.897–1.180) and adolescents (b = 1.207, 95%CI: 0.890–1.524). Greater frequency of parental involvement in PA correlates with elevated PA for both children (b = 2.859, 95%CI: 2.147–3.572) and adolescents (b = 2.147, 95%CI: 0.311–3.983). In children, increased use of community exercise areas or facilities (b = 1.705, 95%CI: 0.234–3.176) and higher recreational screen time (b = 9.732, 95%CI: 5.614–13.850) are associated with higher PA. The SEM showed that factors of the personality system had a significant direct effect on out-of-school PA among children and adolescents, and factors of the behavior system also had a significant effect on children. ConclusionsOur findings suggest that the personality system, particularly intrinsic motivation, is important in promoting out-of-school PA in children and adolescents. For children, modifiable health behaviors in the behavior system can similarly influence PA.

Relationship between positive parenting and cyberbullying perpetration among adolescents: role of self-esteem and smartphone addiction.

Adolescents may perpetrate cyberbullying in cyberspace, which they perceive as a medium of social communication, and cyberbullying perpetration is closely related to adolescent behavior, mental health, and development. This study aimed to examine the relationship of certain factors related to cyberbullying in adolescents using the framework of Jessor's problem behavior theory. This cross-sectional study investigated the mediating effect of adolescent self-esteem and smartphone addiction in the relationship between positive parenting and adolescent cyberbullying perpetration. The secondary analysis used data from the 2018 Korean Children and Youth Panel Survey. The data on positive parenting, adolescent self-esteem, smartphone addiction, and perpetration of cyberbullying of 2,394 Korean adolescents (boys: 1,297, 54.2%) were analyzed. Hayes' PROCESS macro program was used to confirm the mediating role. The results revealed that 26.5% (n = 634) of adolescents had perpetrated cyberbullying. Positive parenting did not directly relate to cyberbullying perpetration. Adolescent self-esteem and smartphone addiction played a mediating role between positive parenting and adolescent cyberbullying. Individual adolescent characteristics and parent/family system characteristics should be considered in policies aimed at preventing adolescent cyberbullying perpetration, preceded by the management of appropriate smartphone use. Improving young people's self-esteem and teaching them how to use smartphones correctly can help prevent cyberbullying.

Student Perspectives on Internal and External Factors Influencing Vulnerability to Risk-Taking Behaviour among Girls in Public Day Secondary Schools in Kiambaa, Kiambu County, Kenya

The study investigated internal and external determinants of vulnerability to risk-taking behavior (RTB) among female students in public day secondary schools (PDSS) in Kiambaa, Kiambu County, Kenya. This was due to the high levels of RTB among secondary school girls that had been reported. The study integrated two theories, problem behaviour theory and empowerment theory. It employed a descriptive survey methodology. Using proportional stratified random sampling and purposive sampling procedures 96 girls participated in the study. A pilot study involving 10 students from Kiambu Sub-County was conducted to assess content and construct validity. Cronbach's alpha (α = 0.7) ensured internal consistency and reliability of variables. Data was collected through questionnaires and interviews, analysed using SPSS version 24 for quantitative data and content analysis for qualitative data, and presented via tables and figures. The findings revealed various RTB among girls, including unprotected sex, prostitution, drug use, abortion, theft, and fighting. RTB determinants encompassed factors like parental divorce, absenteeism, peer pressure, financial hardship, and lack of role models, excessive idle time, societal influences, and declining values. In conclusion, this study highlights the existence of RTB among girls in PDSS and underscores the complexity of factors influencing these behaviours. To effectively address RTB, a comprehensive approach that considers both internal and external factors is essential.

THE PHENOMENON OF CYBERHATE: ANALYSIS OF CONCEPTUAL APPROACHES AND EMPIRICAL FINDINGS OF YOUTH’S CYBERHATE EXPERIENCES IN FRANCE

THE PHENOMENON OF CYBERHATE: ANALYSIS OF CONCEPTUAL APPROACHES AND EMPIRICAL FINDINGS OF YOUTH’S CYBERHATE EXPERIENCES IN FRANCE

Exploring the Relationship between Psychosocial Health and Drug Use among Street Children in Starehe Sub-County, Nairobi, Kenya

Surviving life on the streets is undeniably challenging and takes a toll on the psychosocial well-being of street children, often leading to substance use. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between psychosocial health and drug use among street children in Starehe Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya, utilizing the Problem Behavior Theory (PBT). Employing a correlational research design, data were collected from a sample of 100 street children, selected through cluster and simple random sampling from a target population of 30,000 in Starehe Sub-County. Additionally, information was gathered from four officials at the Starehe Children’s Office, eight officials from NGOs/FBOs operating in the sub-county, one sub-county administrator, and four ward administrators. The qualitative data obtained through questionnaires were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as mean, percentage, and frequencies, along with inferential statistics like Pearson correlation and regression analysis. The presentation of findings utilized charts and tables, while qualitative interview data underwent thematic analysis and were presented in a narrative format. The study's outcomes revealed a noteworthy impact of psychosocial health on drug use among street children, with a significant correlation between the two (r=0.503). The findings suggested that interventions aimed at improving the mental health of street children had a meaningful effect on reducing drug use. Recommendations stemming from the study include the necessity for providing homes to street children to mitigate exposure to stressful conditions leading to mental health issues. Furthermore, the study proposed the implementation of regular free mental healthcare clinics for all street children and emphasized the importance of awareness campaigns to educate them on the detrimental consequences of drug use. Strengthening behavioral counseling, support groups, and creating sober social networks for street children were also highlighted. The study advocated for government and non-governmental organizations to develop programs supporting access to counseling services and training certain street children to provide peer counseling to their fellow youths.

Low self-control, perceived social support and internet gaming addiction: findings from an ethnicity minority region in China.

Adolescent Internet gaming addiction (IGA) is an pincreasing global concern. Drawing on self-control theory, social support theory, and problem behavior theory, this study aimed to examine the relationships between low self-control, perceived social support, and IGA among Chinese Yi and Non-Yi adolescents, with a focus on the moderating role of perceived social support and ethnic differences. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,997 adolescents (53.78% female, mean age 14.70 years) in Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China, using a multi-stage cluster random sampling method. Participants completed questionnaires assessing IGA (Internet Gaming Disorder Scale-Short Form), low self-control (Low Self-Control Scale), and perceived social support (Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, OLS regression, and the seemingly unrelated estimator (SUE). Low self-control was positively associated with IGA (β = 0.35, p < 0.001), while perceived social support was negatively associated with IGA (β = -0.27, p < 0.001). Perceived social support, particularly from family (β = -0.43, p < 0.05) and significant others (β = -0.49, p < 0.01), moderated the relationship between low self-control and IGA. These associations were more salient among Yi adolescents compared to non-Yi adolescents. This study highlights the protective role of perceived social support, especially from family and significant others, in buffering the risk of low self-control on IGA. The findings extend self-control theory and social support theory, and provide empirical support for problem behavior theory in a cross-cultural context. The results underscore the importance of considering cultural contexts in understanding IGA and developing targeted interventions for ethnic minority adolescents.

Prevalence, risk and protective factors of substance use amongst adolescents living in peri‐urban communities in Abuja, Nigeria

AbstractAdolescents living in peri‐urban communities are more vulnerable to risky behaviours such as substance use. This was a cross‐sectional study carried out to determine the prevalence, risk and protective factors of adolescent substance use in peri‐urban communities in Abuja. Data on lifetime and current substance use were collected using the Youth Risk Behaviour Survey Instrument. Data on risk and protective factors of adolescent substance use, based on the Problem Behaviour Theory, were also collected. Using the SPSS software, descriptive analysis was conducted to summarise the data. Bivariate analysis was conducted using chi‐square and independent t‐tests, and multivariate analysis was conducted using logistic regression. A p‐value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The prevalence of lifetime substance use was 22.8%, whilst current substance use was 18.5%. The consumption of mixed drinks was the most currently used form substance at 8.1%, followed by alcohol (5.7%) and shisha (4.7%). Multivariate analysis showed that self‐esteem (0.007), delinquency (p &lt; 0.001) and parent alcohol use (p = 0.045) were independently associated with adolescent substance use. There is a high prevalence of substance use amongst adolescents living in peri‐urban communities in Abuja, Nigeria, as well as a new pattern of substance use consumption. The findings showed that some risk factors identified by the problem behaviour theory were independently associated with adolescent substance use, whilst the protective factors were not. There is a dire need for adolescent substance use interventions in peri‐urban communities that addresses certain risk factors.

Influence of Childhood Adversity on Students’ Delinquent Activities: Interplay with Neighborhood Context and Delinquent Peer Association

Juvenile delinquency is often linked with various proximal family and environmental factors during a child’s upbringing. Richard Jessor’s problem behavior theory (PBT) emphasizes that a combined interplay of these factors may explain this phenomenon appropriately. This study employed the PBT framework to investigate the impact of family on students’ delinquency, considering the influence of neighborhood and delinquent peer association. A model was developed for analyzing the variables by structural equation modeling (SEM). Data were collected through interviews with 1026 students aged between 12 and 18 years from a child development center and eight educational institutes in Bangladesh. The findings revealed that family-level factors (adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and family deprivation) can significantly predict students’ delinquency directly and through the moderation effect of neighborhood-level variables (neighborhood social capital and neighborhood disorganization). Delinquent peer association exhibited a significant mediating role in the model. It could directly predict delinquency as well. The research has notable theoretical and practical implications for understanding the complex dynamics of family, neighborhood, and delinquent peer association in explaining students’ delinquency.

Influence of Stakeholder's Engagement on Implementation of Drug and Alcohol Abuse Policy: A Case Study of Langas Estate Uasin Gishu County

Purpose: The purpose of the research study was to ascertain how the involvement of stakeholders affects the decline in substance abuse in Langas Estate. Specifically, the study was anchored on the following objectives; Public awareness, Capacity building and Policy implementation.&#x0D; Methodology: The researcher adopted a simple random sampling approach who were to help present primary data. Primary data was gathered using surveys with closed ended questions, with focus being on Langas Estate, comprising youth and adults. Google forms were used as the primary data collection tool, with respondents receiving a link to the form, filling and submitting the completed forms. Microsoft Excel was used to code, tabulate, and analyze correctly completed surveys forms. To get a representative sample, a 5% margin of error and 90% confidence level and a 30% proportion was used. The calculated sample size was 229 respondents. Descriptive statistics included means, standard deviation, frequency and percentages. Data was presented in form of tables and graphs. Correlation and regression analysis were used to explore the strength between the independent and dependent variables.&#x0D; Findings: The findings showed limited awareness of drug policies and education efforts based on low mean scores, reflecting gaps in the Belief System Model. Respondents disagreed that capacity building by entities like Nyumba Kumi is adequate, aligning with Family Systems Theory. Sentiment indicated ineffective policy implementation, tying to Problem Behavior Theory. The analysis reveals deficits in awareness, capacity building and policy implementation that likely perpetuate drug abuse, validating the study's theoretical framework. The study recommends stakeholders strengthen awareness campaigns, increase community empowerment programs, improve policy enforcement and funding support.&#x0D; Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: The study identifies the gaps that lie between policy implementation, drugs and substance abuse awareness campaign. It shows that the stakeholders are not doing enough to help curb the menace. There are still gaps to be filled especially in awareness campaign, capacity building and policy implementation. It this calls for the full engagement of national government, county government, chief, Nyumba Kumi initiative and NACADA to play their roles effectively in enforcement of the stated policies.

Prevalence and correlates of addictive behaviours among adolescents in Chandigarh, North India

ABSTRACT Objective The objective of the present study was to determine the prevalence of addictive behaviors among in-school and out-of-school adolescents of age 13–19 years in Chandigarh, India. Methods Problem Behavior Theory (PBT) was used to identify the risk and protective factors for addictive problem behaviors among adolescents. Results A total of 1634 adolescents were included from in-school (n = 1134) and out-of-school (n = 500) categories. The prevalence of addictive behaviors was 19.1% (current smoking 6%, alcohol drinking 6.1%, and drug use 7%) among adolescents aged 13 to 19. Significant predictors of smoking were being male (aOR = 4.43; 95%CI: 1.92,10.20; p < .001) and having a working father (aOR = 3.19; 95%CI: 1.10, 9.20; p < .05). Total protective score [smoking: aOR = 0.99; 95% CI:0.97, 0.99: p < .05; alcohol use: aOR:0.98;95% CI:0.97,0.99; p < .01; drug use: OR:0.99, 95%CI: 0.98,0.99; p < .05] and total risk score [smoking: aOR = 1.14; 95%CI:1.11, 1.17: p < .001; alcohol use: aOR:1.10;95% CI:1.07,1.12; p < .001; drug use: aOR:1.05, 95%CI: 1.04,1.06 p < .001] were significantly associated with all three addictive behaviors. Conclusions The current study’s findings can inform the development of intervention programs focusing on both adolescents and communities (social environment surrounding adolescents) to enhance the protection of adolescents at risk for addictive behaviors.

Prevalence of Antisocial Behavior among Secondary School Students in Nairobi City County

Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine how common antisocial behavior is among secondary school students in Nairobi City County. &#x0D; Methodology: The study employed a parallel convergent mixed-method design with a target population of 38,641 adolescents, parents, and teachers in Nairobi County secondary schools. Quantitative Data was collected from 398 adolescents in forms 2 and 3 via random sampling. All school categories were represented through cling cluster sampling, while simple random sampling selected respondents within each school. Qualitative data was purposively obtained from 10 students, 10 parents, and 10 teachers. Proven psychometric tools like Assessment of identity Development in Adolescence, Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, Children’s Perception of Inter-Parental Conflict Scale, and Dhaka Stress Scale-Adolescent collected quantitative data. Pearson coefficient correlations were calculated using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 25) to explore relationships between variables.&#x0D; Findings: Based on this analysis, this study revealed the prevalence of moderate to severe antisocial behaviour in at least half of the adolescents in Nairobi. This is, however, not unique to the county. In attempting to explain the causes of antisocial behaviour among adolescents using the Problem Behaviour Theory by Jessor, et al. (2004), many scholars have witnessed it as a worldwide phenomenon.&#x0D; Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommended for the involvement of counselling professionals in the screening and treatment. The Ministry of Education must also undertake the task of harmonizing the school curriculum. By doing so, the curriculum can be developed into a well-balanced and comprehensive framework that promotes a healthier learning environment for students.

Parental influences on excessive Internet use among adolescents

PurposeUsing longitudinal data, this study aims to provide a greater understanding as to how parenting factors, including the employment of various disciplinary techniques, during a young person's early adolescence may contribute to excessive Internet use (EIU) in later adolescence.Design/methodology/approachEmploying “Problem Behaviour” theory (PBT) as a guiding framework, this study uses data from the Growing Up in Ireland ’98 Cohort to investigate the effect of proximal and distal parental influences, measured when children were 13 years old, on symptoms of EIU in young adults at 17 or 18 years. Multiple regression models control for other child and family factors, and separate models for males and females examine sex differentials.FindingsEstimation did not find a statistically significant association between internet-specific mediation practices in early adolescence and EIU in later adolescence. However, regularly playing games or sports together is a protective factor. Parent-adolescent conflict and spending time home alone are estimated as risk factors. How parents deal with misbehaviour is a strong predictor of EIU, with the direction of association dependent upon the type and frequency of discipline employed.Practical implicationsThe findings are of practical significance in informing parents of modifiable aspects of their behaviour that can lead to EIU.Originality/valueThe study applies a longitudinal modelling framework and considers the effect on EIU of various parental disciplinary techniques, representing a novel contribution.

Applying Problem Behavior Theory to Investigate the Factors Affecting Tobacco Products Use by Students at Eight Universities in the Greater Taipei Area

There is growing concern related to the recent rise in consumption of cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, and heated tobacco products. The government should pay more attention to the use of various tobacco products by university students. Problem behavior theory was used in this study to explore the factors influencing the use of various tobacco products by university students in the Greater Taipei area. In this cross-sectional study, convenience sampling was used to select eight institutions of higher education in the Greater Taipei area. Eight departments recognized by the Ministry of Education were then listed on a table for use in randomizing the selection of third- and fourth-year undergraduate students. A total of 115 participants filled out the questionnaires included in the self-administered online survey. Data analysis was conducted using logistic regression. The prevalence of tobacco-product use in the sample was 5.22%. Logistic regression analysis revealed having parents who smoked (adjusted odds ratio, AOR = 2.05), holding a positive attitude toward their parents' smoking (AOR = 4.23), having peers who smoked (AOR = 4.33), engaging in deviant behavior (AOR = 90.44), and having peers involved in deviant behavior (AOR = 103.99) to be associated with a higher likelihood of engaging in tobacco-product use. Family, peers and delinquency significantly influence the usage behavior of university students with regard to tobacco products. The government should allocate greater resources for tobacco harm prevention education aimed at the parents of university students. In addition, integrating tobacco harm education into campus curricula, utilizing social media for online digital education, and providing students with counseling and support measures are strategies that may help reduce the tobacco-product use among this vulnerable population.

Alexithymia and Internet Addiction in Children: Meaning in Life as Mediator and Reciprocal Filial Piety as Moderator.

To explore the psychological mechanism between alexithymia and Internet addiction, the present study constructed a moderated mediation model based on the problem behavior theory. A total of 899 middle school students (Mage=13.95, SD=1.10) were surveyed using the 20-item Toronto-alexithymia-scale, meaning in life questionnaire, dual filial piety scale, and Internet addiction disorder diagnostic scale. First, alexithymia was significantly negatively correlated with meaning in life and reciprocal filial piety, and positively correlated with Internet addiction; meaning in life was significantly positively correlated with reciprocal filial piety, and negatively correlated with Internet addiction; reciprocal filial piety was significantly positively correlated with authoritarian filial piety, and negatively correlated with Internet addiction. Second, alexithymia could not only directly predict Internet addiction, but also indirectly predict Internet addiction through meaning in life. Third, reciprocal filial piety played a moderating role between meaning in life and Internet addiction, while authoritarian filial piety did not. For middle school students with low reciprocal filial piety, meaning in life can negatively predict Internet addiction; for those with high reciprocal filial piety, there is no correlation between meaning in life and Internet addiction. This study reveals the internal mechanism of the relationship between alexithymia and Internet addiction in middle school students, emphasizes the role of positive psychology and family environment, and provides specific evidence and theoretical guidance for preventing Internet addiction in middle school students.

Relationship between Rewarding Positive Behaviour and Disruptive Behaviour in Secondary Schools in Nairobi County Kenya

It is estimated that about 20% of secondary school students in Kenya display challenging behaviours such as disruptiveness, non-compliance or aggression that limit their ability to learn and interfere with productive classroom instruction. Teachers use a variety of ways to manage and reduce these challenging behaviours. For instance, from the literature reviewed, it is clear that disruptive behaviour is as a result of punitive measures used in managing students’ behaviour. In these studies, it is not clear how specific behavioural management strategies influence disruptive behaviour. The aim of this study therefore, was to investigate the correlation between rewarding positive behavior; teaching alternative behavior and disruptive behaviours among form two students in Dagoretti Sub County. Specifically, the study investigated the relationship between rewarding positive behaviour and teaching alternative behaviour and disruptive behaviour. This study employed a mixed research methodology in which both quantitative and qualitative methods were used. Data was collected because the study was aimed at establishing if there was a significant relationship between behaviour support strategies and disruptive behaviours among form two students. According to Kothari (2004) quantitative research methodology focuses on numeric and detailed data that is collected using structured research instruments while qualitative methodology collects data from the respondents using narratives. Questionnaires were used to collect data on the study variables and then analysed using computer software to answer the research questions. Interview schedule was used to collect qualitative data from the guidance and counselling teachers. This research methodology was appropriate for this study because it provided an in-depth understanding of the research problem since it employs diverse approaches in data collection. The study was based on Problem Behaviour Theory. To establish the nature of the relationships among the research variables, the study employed correlational research design. This study was carried out in Dagoretti North Sub-County, Nairobi City County. The study targeted 6456 form two students, 64 form two class teachers and 32 guidance and counselling teachers in the year 2023. Purposive sampling was employed in selecting form two classes, their class teachers and guidance and counselling teachers. Students were selected using simple random sampling. The sample consisted of 365 students and 20 teachers who were sampled from 10 schools. This study primarily utilized structured questionnaires for the classroom teachers and students to collect data on Rewarding positive behaviour used by teachers and disruptive behaviour. Piloting of the research instruments involved conducting a study in one school using 20 students and two teachers. The results were used to ascertain the validity and reliability of the questionnaires. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze quantitative data by calculating frequencies and percentages that were presented using frequency tables. Pearson product moment correlation analysis was employed to test hypotheses. The results indicate that there was a negative and significant relationship between rewarding positive behaviour and disruptive behaviour, r (352) = – .29, p &lt; 0.05. Since the study found that there was a negative and significant relationship between rewarding positive behaviour and disruptive behaviour among students, teachers should ensure that they come up with comprehensive guidance and counselling programs on teaching the students desirable behaviour and rewarding positive behaviour. This will go a long way in reducing disruptive behaviour among secondary school students.

Violent Video Game Exposure and Problem Behaviors among Children and Adolescents: The Mediating Role of Deviant Peer Affiliation for Gender and Grade Differences.

Based on problem behavior theory, a mediation model for gender and grade differences is explored in this study. The study examined gender and grade differences in the effects of violent video games and deviant peer affiliation on problem behaviors among children and adolescents. A total of 2118 children and adolescents from four primary and middle schools in China (M age = 13.08, SD = 2.17) were surveyed using an anonymous questionnaire on basic information, exposure to violent video games, deviant peer affiliation, and problem behaviors. The results showed that exposure to violent video games significantly positively predicted problem behaviors, and deviant peer affiliation played a mediating role. Significant gender and grade differences were found in the mediating effect. This finding helps understand the individual differences in the influencing factors of problem behaviors. Further, it has important implications for interventions to reduce problem behaviors among children and adolescents.

Short Term Effect of an Empowerment Education Intervention on Substance Use among Adolescents Living in Peri-urban Communities, Abuja, Nigeria

Physiological and emotional changes during adolescence increases their vulnerability to the adoption of risky behaviour such as substance use. Hence, adolescence has been reported to be a critical risk period for initiating the use of substances [1]. In Nigeria, research has shown a high prevalence of substance use among adolescents [2 &amp; 3]. &#x0D; Empowerment education intervention is a type of empowerment intervention with the potential to prevent and reduce adolescent substance use. This intervention involves a three-step methodology – listen, dialogue, and action to empower participants. This type of intervention has been reported to improve self-esteem, critical thinking, problem solving, community connectedness, and social support of the participants [4]. However, studies using the empowerment education intervention to prevent adolescent substance use are few in developing countries [5]. This study was, therefore, conducted to determine the short-term effect of an empowerment education intervention aimed at preventing adolescent substance use among adolescents living in peri-urban communities in Nigeria.&#x0D; This study involved a quasi-experimental design, conducted in Abuja with communities as the unit of randomization. Using G-power, the total sample size obtained was 300. Two peri-urban communities each were randomly assigned to the intervention and control groups, and adolescents from these communities who expressed interest in the project were enrolled for the study. All adolescents who were enrolled were aged between 11 to 19 years old, in secondary schools, and had basic reading and writing skills. Participants who were involved in similar programme were not included in the current study. The intervention group received weekly sessions for 12 weeks according to the Teen Heroes curriculum; an empowerment education curriculum developed according to Friere’s principles, which required some form of community action from the participants. The curriculum contains sessions on teamwork, alcohol and tobacco use, drug use, and planning a substance use project in the community. The sessions are mainly interactive, using problem posing method of education, interspersed with group activities and presentation. For the control group, monthly sessions on bullying and personal hygiene were conducted. Short-term post-intervention data was collected two weeks after the intervention. Data was collected on quantity of substance use as well as other risk and protective factors (delinquency, self-esteem, self-efficacy, attitude to substance use, peer support, behavioural conduct, social competence, depression and delinquency) identified in the problem behaviour theory. An independent t-test was conducted to determine if there was a significant difference in the mean quantity of substance use, as well as other risk and protective factors among the intervention and control groups. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered significant.&#x0D; Data was collected from two hundred and fifty-six participants, with 131 in the intervention group and 125 participants in the control group. Majority (62.1%) of the respondents were females, while 37.9% were males.&#x0D; Data analysis showed no significant effect of the intervention on the quantity of substances used by the participants two weeks post intervention. Perhaps, the nature of the substances did not allow for the effect of the intervention to be observed after two weeks. Additionally, the intervention did not address parental and familial factors of substance use which may have had a stronger effect on adolescent substance use. However, there was a significant mean difference in peer support, social competence and self-efficacy between the intervention and control groups. The effect observed on their peer support and social competence could be due to the interactive and social nature of the intervention, as it required lots of teamwork, discussions and project planning, while their self-efficacy could have been improved due to the practical nature of the intervention, as participants were expected to carry out a project for the community. This finding was supported by Thulin et al [6]. Other risk and protective variables were not significantly associated with the intervention. The findings are different from the studies conducted by Zimmerman et al. in 2018 [7], and Thulin et al. in 2022 [6] which found the intervention influenced delinquency, and prosocial behaviour. There is a need to conduct more medium- and longer-term studies to determine any delayed effect of the intervention on substance use, and other risk and protective factors. Conclusively, the intervention had no short-term effect on substance use, however an effect could be seen on social competence, peer support and self-efficacy.