CV S3cial Competence Predictors of Adolescent Antisocial Behavior

Social competence promotion has emerged as a promising strategy for the prevention of adolescent antisocial behavior. However, although evaluations of social skills training interventions consistently have shown improvements in participants' skill levels, the evidence for long-term behavioral improvements is equivocal. Variables such as social goals, efficacy expectations, and values likely influence an individual's motivation to behave in a socially competent manner. Unfortunately, little is known about relationships among these variables. This study examined relationships between adolescents ' social competence, social goals, efficacy expectations, values, and antisocial behavior. Eighty male adolescents targeted by a statewide delinquency and substance use prevention initiative were administered an abbreviated version of the Adolescent Problems Inventory and a self-report measure of delinquen