Ongoing Engagement in Organized Activities May Buffer Disadvantaged Youth Against Increasing Externalizing Behaviors

Participation in organized activities during adolescence is associated with many positive psychological and social outcomes. This study investigated associations between continued participation in organized activities and socioeconomic status of schools in predicting externalizing behavior (e.g., skipping school, fighting, etc.) among adolescents. The findings suggest that students from socioeconomically disadvantaged schools have a higher risk of externalizing behavior and discontinuing non-sport organized activities.