ABSTRACT
In the previous section we focused on the diversity of models and methodologies for understanding which subgroups of youths are most at risk for mental health problems when exposed to normative developmental stressors or cumulative life stress. We must keep in mind that in these large and small cross-sections of adolescents most youth are within the range of adaptive functioning, and many who are experiencing difficulties will weather the stresses of this period to make a relatively successful transition to adulthood. The authors, however, have identified some problematic patterns for girls and for boys. Recall, Brooks-Gunn has identified early developing girls as at-risk, and Petersen and associates have shown that depressed, mildly delinquent boys at early adolescence are at heightened risk for significant grade declines in later adolescence. Finally, Dornbusch and colleagues have uncovered greater vulnerability to stress among girls, in the area of distress symptoms, and vulnerability to behavioral problems among children living in non-two parent households.
