This study tested whether proactive and reactive aggression
were differently predictive of
later externalizing problems such as delinquency and DSM-related disruptive
behaviors (i.e.
oppositional defiant and conduct disorders). It also tested whether these
two subtypes of
aggressive behaviors interacted in predicting externalizing problems. A
community sample
of low SES boys participated in the study. Proactive and reactive aggression
were rated by
teachers when boys were 12 years old. Delinquency, oppositional disorders,
and conduct
disorders were assessed during mid-adolescence. Proactive but not reactive
aggression
predicted delinquency and disruptive behaviors. Moreover, high levels of
reactive aggression
weakened the link between proactive aggression and delinquency. Reactive
aggression,
however, did not moderate the link between proactive aggression and disruptive
behaviors.
We conclude that reactive and proactive aggression are two distinct types
of aggressive
behaviors with different predictive abilities. We also offer tentative
explanations to account
for the present findings.