background Recent studies show that in reducing antisocial behavior a twofold approach is needed (Van der Laan e.a. 2010). That is: reducing risk by eliminating risk factors and enhancing protection by focusing on promotive factors. Whether promotive factors have a direct or indirect effect on antisocial behavior is not yet known. A theoretical model that incorporates different moderating and mediating effects of risk and promotive factors is the Good Lives Model.
aim In the present study the influence of promotive factors is investigated in youngsters who are admitted to a youth detention centre or youth forensic psychiatric hospital. These transitions can be experienced as stressful and therefore could be seen as a risk factor. The effects of incapacitation/ incarceration on the development and if certain other risk or promotive factors play a role are unknown.
method The current study has a longitudinal four wave design and approximately 257 males (16 or 17 years old) with severe psychiatric problems will be interviewed at four time-points. Promotive factors will be assessed by means of the Utrecht Coping List, adolescent version (ucl-a; Bijstra e.a. 1994), Self Perception Profile for Adolescents (sppa) (Treffers 2002) and a structured riskassessment questionnaire the savry (Lodewijks e.a. 2006).
results Preliminary results will be presented by means of descriptive data. These data will be a reflection of the first wave of assessments and will be connected to the current literature concerning promotive factors.
conclusion Knowing whether and how promotive factors influence risky transitions is important from a clinical point of view because this way a starting point for behavioral change will be given which diminishes chance on psychiatric relapse and recidivism.