Heterogeneity of early-onset conduct problems: assessing different profiles, predictors and outcomes across childhood

Abstract

Background: Among early-onset conduct problems (CP), associated with more disruptive behaviors of greater intensity and stability, several domains have been proposed from a variable-centered perspective to capture their heterogeneity: oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and callous-unemotional traits (CU). Using a person-centered approach, the present study aims to identify distinct profiles of child CP, examining different predictors and developmental outcomes. Methods: Data included parent- and teacher-reported questionnaires from an ongoing longitudinal study (ELISA). Latent profiles were identified first in a community sample (n = 2,103; age 4–8 years; 50.9% boys) and replicated in a high-CP subsample (n = 168; 70.24% boys). Results: Four profiles emerged in the community sample (Normative Development, Daring/Impulsive, Low prosociality + Fear; Low prosociality + Psychopathic Traits [PP]), and three in the high-CP sample (same except the normative). The identified CP profiles aligned with the ADHD and CU domains, but not the ODD domain. Differences in activity, punitive and inconsistent parenting emerge as the most significant predictors. Regarding the outcomes, the Low prosociality + PP profile stands out as the group with the most severe emotional, social and behavioral maladjustment. Conclusions: These findings highlight the heterogeneity within CP, and the importance of designing specific and tailored interventions for each identified profile.