Longitudinal analysis of change in children’s problem behavior as a function of consistent family support is significant socially and theoretically. It has been known for quite some time that early starters represent approximately 6%–7% of the population, yet are responsible for nearly half of adolescent crime and three fourths of violent crimes (Offord, Boyle, & Racine, 1991). These youth typically initiate problem behavior very early in development and are engaging in antisocial behavior by age 6 or 7.From the coercion model perspective, it is more accurate to say that their coercive behaviors, unfortunately, were not reduced as is typical during this phase of development. Youths who are consistently high in coercive behaviors are more likely to be seen as problematic by age 8 (Shaw et al., 2003). Children rated by teachers as problematic as early as age 6 and 7 are much more likely to engage in serious problem behavior in adolescence (Loeber & Dishion, 1983). Thus, these initial findings suggest that randomization to a relatively brief, annual parent support check-up can potentially prevent the emergence of a behavior pattern that portends future and more serious antisocial and emotional difficulties for these youth.
