The goal of the present study was to examine the relationship between empathy and externalizing behavior problems in a sample of 105 children (mean age = 11.45, SD = 3.13). The children in this...Show moreThe goal of the present study was to examine the relationship between empathy and externalizing behavior problems in a sample of 105 children (mean age = 11.45, SD = 3.13). The children in this sample participated in a community-based intervention program aiming to prevent delinquency. Two types of externalizing behavior problems, aggressive behavior and rule-breaking behavior, were measured before intervention started. Children showed more aggressive behavior when they were less empathic. There was no relationship between empathy and the level of rule breaking behavior the children showed. After six months of intervention, a second measurement of the children’s externalizing aggressive and rule-breaking behavior took place. The relationship between empathy and aggressive behavior no longer existed, probably because the aggressive behavior decreased due to the intervention. Also, there was no relationship between empathy and the intervention effect. Empathy only seems to play a minor role in predicting the level of externalizing behavior problems children show. Results indicate a significant decrease of aggressive behavior as well as rule breaking behavior after six months of intervention. This suggests that this intervention program is effective in reducing an important risk factor for becoming delinquent. Interestingly, higher levels of aggressive- or rule breaking behavior prior to intervention started were related to higher intervention effects. It seems the intervention is especially effective in reducing externalizing problems in children who have the highest risk for becoming delinquent.Show less
