Putting theory to the test: modeling a multidimensional, developmentally-based approach to preschool disruptive behavior.
OBJECTIVE
There is increasing emphasis on dimensional conceptualizations of psychopathology, but empirical evidence of their utility is just emerging. In particular, although a range of multidimensional models have been proposed, the relative fit of competing models has rarely been tested. Furthermore, developmental considerations have received scant attention. In this study, we tested a developmentally based, four-dimensional model of disruptive behavior theorized to represent the defining features of disruptive behavior at preschool age: Temper Loss, Noncompliance, Aggression, and Low Concern for Others.


METHODS
Model testing was conducted in two independent samples of preschoolers: Clinically Enriched Sample (n = 336) and Epidemiologic Sample (n = 532). The tau-equivalent confirmatory factor analyses were used to test the fit of the Developmental Model relative to three leading competing models (DSM opositional defiant disorder (ODD)/conduct disorder (CD) Model, "Callous" Model, and an "Irritable/Headstrong/Hurtful" Model). Reliability of the four dimensions was also tested. Validity of the dimensions was tested by predicting multi-informant, multi-method ratings of disruptive behavior and impairment, and incremental utility relative to DSM symptoms.


RESULTS
In both samples, the Developmental Model demonstrated a superior fit compared with the competing models within the full sample, and across key demographic subgroups. Validity was also demonstrated, including incremental utility relative to DSM-IV disruptive behavior symptoms.


CONCLUSIONS
Critical next steps for achieving scientific consensus about the optimal dimensional model of disruptive behavior and its clinical application are discussed.
Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 710 N. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60611, USA. lauriew@northwestern.edu
Lauren S
LS
Wakschlag
David B
DB
Henry
Patrick H
PH
Tolan
Alice S
AS
Carter
James L
JL
Burns
Margaret J
MJ
Briggs-Gowan
D000342:Affective Symptoms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology; D019958:Attention Deficit and Disruptive Behavior Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology; D002652:Child Behavior / Q000523:psychology*; D002657:Child Development; D002675:Child, Preschool; D002658:Developmental Disabilities; D039721:Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D007508:Irritable Mood; D008297:Male; D008960:Models, Psychological; D011581:Psychological Tests / Q000592:standards*; D011599:Psychopathology / Q000379:methods; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012919:Social Behavior