Predictors of assaultiveness in latency age children.

The authors evaluated the presence of assaultive behavior in 103 children, aged 6-12 years, seen in the psychiatric inpatient and outpatient services of a municipal hospital. No racial or ethnic differences were found. Boys were significantly more assaultive than girls and used fire setting and hitting with objects more often. Inpatients were significantly more assaultive than outpatients. Children with conduct disorders, specific developmental disorders, and mental retardation were more assaultive than those with neurotic disorders. Multiple regression analysis showed that the child's past aggressive behavior, absence of anxiety and depression, and parental assaultive behavior were the best predictors of assaultive behavior.