Adolescent problem behaviors: the influence of attachment and autonomy.

This article reviews current literature on adolescent problem behaviors and suggests that a model based on attachment theory and theories of adolescent autonomy and relatedness can help explain the development of these behaviors. When adolescents hold models of relationships with parents that are characterized by anger and insecurity and face increased pressures to seek autonomy, a high risk of problem behaviors ensues. Treatment implications flowing from this model are discussed.