A factor analytic approach to distinguish pure and co-occurring dimensions of proactive and reactive aggression

J Clin Child Adolesc Psychol. 2006 Dec;35(4):578-82. doi: 10.1207/s15374424jccp3504_9.

Abstract

This study used a confirmatory factor model to distinguish pure and co-occurring dimensions of proactive and reactive aggression, and examined the relation between parenting variables and these dimensions of aggression in a sample of 100 children (9 to 12 years of age; 69 boys). Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) supported 3 dimensions of proactive and reactive aggression: pure proactive, pure reactive, and their co-occurrence. Parenting variables differentially related to the pure and co-occurring dimensions of aggression. Findings indicate that CFA provides a promising approach for conceptualizing aggression on a continuum and allows researchers to distinguish pure and co-occurring dimensions of proactive and reactive aggression.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aggression / psychology*
  • Child
  • Child Behavior / psychology
  • Factor Analysis, Statistical*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Parenting / psychology