Self-regulation and Disruptive Behavior among School Adolescents: The Moderating Effects of Family Structure

Abstract

In Ethiopia, problem behaviors in adolescents are commonly reported phenomena. However, studies examining how personal factor (self-regulation) influence the same are rarely found. Hence, the present study aimed to examine the effects of self-regulation on adolescents' disruptive behavior using family structure as a moderating variable. Correlational research design was employed to address the objectives of the study. Data were collected from a randomly selected 304 adolescent students (155 males, 149 females) using ‘the Problem Behavior Frequency Questionnaire’, and ‘Adolescents’ Self-Regulation Inventory’. Multiple regression analysis and two-way ANOVA were used to examine relationships and differences. Findings indicated that there is a statistically significant negative relationship between self-regulation and disruptive behavior in adolescents. Adolescents from non-intact family structures were found to engage in more disruptive behavior than adolescents from intact family structures. Male adolescents were found more active in disruptive behaviors than female adolescents. Self-regulation difference in adolescents as a function of their sex and family structure was reported. Sex and family structures moderate the relationship between self-regulation and disruptive behavior in adolescents. Because self-regulation is crucial to shield adolescents from engaging in disruptive behaviors, it is recommended that life skill training be provided for the adolescents in this study area in order to foster their self-control skills.