In male and female adolescents (n=30), the predictive relationship between social competency and peer relations and age differences in social competence was studied. Based upon a social deficit hypothesis, linear age differences were observed in social knowledge, locus of control, and a trend in empathy. (Author/PN)

The roles of risk and protective factors were studied in 74 male and 105 female adolescents from a middle and lower income northeastern school district. Protective factors (family cohesion, locus of control mother/father communication, and relationships with a nonparent adult) were highly context-specific but were powerful predictors of…

Impoverished pregnant teenagers were distinguished from matched or random controls by an inability to cope; by identification of family, school, and peer relationships as self-devaluing experiences; by an attraction to deviant identity as a source of self-esteem; and by adoption of deviant behaviors. (Author/CP)