Question
What is Problem Behavior Syndrome and how does it explain adolescent behavior?
Answer
Problem Behavior Syndrome (PBS) is a theoretical framework that seeks to explain the co-occurrence of various problem behaviors in adolescents by pointing to an underlying personality trait—unconventionality. Adolescents with this syndrome often display externalizing behaviors such as fighting, truancy, and rebellion against authority. These behaviors are thought to stem from an unconventional personality, which deviates from societal norms.
Unconventionality in this context means that these adolescents do not engage in typical societal activities, such as school functions or religious gatherings, and often rebel against them. They tend to tolerate and even engage in deviant behaviors without distress. This lack of connection to conventional institutions and activities often leads to a higher tolerance for and participation in behaviors considered deviant or illegal. Furthermore, these adolescents frequently hold highly liberal views, further differentiating them from their peers, who adhere more closely to societal norms.
This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course, Adolescent Development: Addiction, Ethics, and Research Supervision, presented by Julie Campbell, PhD.
