Resilience Predictors of Violence and Externalizing Behavior Problems for Urban Exceptional Students.

This study analyzed the association between resilience and violence as rated by teachers and parents of exceptional students (N=613) from large urban, public schools in Ohio. Multiple types of exceptionalities were represented and a high proportion of the diversity came from low socioeconomic backgrounds. Resilience predictor variables were assessed using the Resilience Assessment of Exceptional Students-Parent Rating Form which considered such variables as knowledge; planning for needs; problem-solving; modeling; peer relations; adult interactions; extended family; and community support. The results indicated that positive peer relations were most consistent with unique predictions of violence and externalizing behavior problems. Urban exceptional youth who are violent with externalizing problems have higher positive relations. This finding is consistent with previous research results. It concludes that exceptional youth with violent or aggressive behavior may benefit from techniques to promote peer leadership in socially positive ways. (Contains 3 tables and 10 references.) (JDM)