UC Santa Barbara

In this article the authors review research on highly stressful environments that are known to support the development and display of aggressive behavior in childhood, adolescence, and beyond. They also examine some of the mechanisms through which such stressful environments may influence adolescents' aggressive behavior The review concentrates on adolescents' understanding of the social behavior of others and possible changes in the neurobiology of the brain. Finally, they briefly summarize the broad body of literature linking aggressive behavior in childhood and adolescence to long-term adjustment. The, authors conclude with recommendations for public policy and intervention strategies designed to mitigate the development and display of aggressive behavior.