An Investigation of Violent and Nonviolent Adolescents' Family Functioning, Problems Concerning Family Members, Anger and Anger Expression

The purpose of this study is to (a) investigate the families of violent and nonviolent adolescents in terms of family functioning, trait anger and anger expression, and (b) compare incidence of psychological problems, alcohol usage and delinquent behaviors. The sample consisted of families of both violent (n=54) and nonviolent adolescents (n=54) whose age range was between 14 and 18 years. In order to investigate the anger levels and anger expressions the State-Trait Anger Scale (STAS) was used. Additionally, the McMaster Family Assessment Device (FAD) was used to investigate families' functions. The data about the problems concerning family members such as alcohol use of family members, having psychological problems and criminal behaviors were collected via 'Personal Information Form' prepared by the researcher. In accordance with the purpose of the study, data were analyzed with "t" test and chi-square test. Results showed that families of violent adolescents had more deficits and conflicts in problem-solving, communication, role assignment, affective responsiveness, affective involvement, behavior control and general functioning when compared to the families of nonviolent adolescents. When analyzed in terms of anger, families of violent adolescents scored significantly higher on "trait anger", "anger-in" and "anger-out" when compared to the families of nonviolent adolescents. Families of nonviolent adolescents had more "anger control" than the other group. Families in the violent group reported more problem behaviors, more use of alcohol and more delinquent behaviors than control group.