It is known from earlier studies that children with psychiatric disorders, like ADHD and ODD, show alterations in reward- and punishment sensitivity. Reactive and proactive aggression frequently...Show moreIt is known from earlier studies that children with psychiatric disorders, like ADHD and ODD, show alterations in reward- and punishment sensitivity. Reactive and proactive aggression frequently occur in those disorders, and therefore altered reward- and punishment sensitivity may be associated with these behaviours as well. This study investigated the relationship between reward- and punishment sensitivity and reactive and proactive aggression in a sample of 385 boys (mean age 14,5 years). In addition the effectiveness of the behavioural therapeutic program Minder Boos en Opstandig in reducing behavioural problems and improving reward- and punishment sensitivity was assessed in a sample of 12 children (mean age 10,1 years). Participants performed tasks measuring reward- and punishment sensitivity and completed questionnaires measuring behavioural problems, callous and unemotional traits and reward- and punishment sensitivity. Parents also completed questionnaires about behavioural problems and reward- and punishment sensitivity in their children. Results show a relationship between both types of aggression and sensitivity to reward. Proactive aggressive children were found to be more likely to show sensation-seeking behaviour than reactive aggressive children. No significant associations with sensitivity to punishment were found. The results show that the Minder Boos en Opstandig program is effective in reducing behavioural problems. The reduction of delinquent behaviour was found to be related to a diminished sensitivity to social reward. The results of this study may be useful for improving treatments such as the Minder Boos en Opstandig program, in which a greater emphasis on reward- and punishment sensitivity could be introduced.Show less
