ABSTRACT
The early starter model describes the family matrix that provides for the direct training of antisocial behavior in young boys. We believe that reinforcement for aggression is provided directly in the interaction among family members. The antisocial behaviors then generalize from home to other settings, leading to social failures that in turn contribute to the long-term maintenance of the child in the antisocial process. The findings relating to this are briefly reviewed. In this chapter, the general hypothesis that is tested is that antisocial behavior assessed at Grade 4 is prototypic and predictive of delinquent behaviors occurring at Grades 7 and 8. Longitudinal data from the Oregon Youth Study (OYS) are presented that examine this connection.
