Observations of social competence of children in need of special support based on traditional disability categories versus a functional approach

Interaction processes as a mediating factor between children's externalized behaviour difficulties and engagement in preschool

“…The result showing that conduct difficulties did not have a negative impact on either social interaction or engagement is inconsistent with previous studies (Buhs et al, 2006;Denham et al, 1990;Lillvist, 2010;Nurmi, 2012;Olson, 1992). This may be related to type of activities in and proportion of free play (Corsaro, 1988;Jonsdottir, 2007;Lillvist, 2010;Olausson, 2012).…”

“…This may be related to type of activities in and proportion of free play (Corsaro, 1988;Jonsdottir, 2007;Lillvist, 2010;Olausson, 2012). Free play probably involve a low frequency of adult instruction that could trigger oppositional behaviour.…”

“…Studies have shown that conduct problems tend to have a negative impact on teachers' perceptions of the child, leading to less teacher responsiveness (Denham, McKinley, Couchoud, & Holt, 1990;Nurmi, 2012). Peer interaction in preschool is also affected if a child displays aggressive behaviour, and can eventually lead to rejection by the peer group (Buhs, Ladd, & Herald, 2006;Lillvist, 2010;Olson, 1992). …”

“…children's self-selected social and learning activities with little or no interference from the preschool staff, imposes great demands on children's ability to initiate, maintain and end activities in a socially acceptable way (Corsaro, 1988;Jonsdottir, 2007;Lillvist, 2010;Olausson, 2012). Children who have difficulties regulating their behaviour according to social expectations, e.g.…”

“…Children who have difficulties regulating their behaviour according to social expectations, e.g. those with hyperactivity difficulties and/or conduct problems, are at risk of becoming less involved in social activities (Greene, 2012;Lillvist, 2010;Santos, Vaughn, Peceguina, & Daniel, 2014). However, more research is needed concerning how social interactions in a preschool context may affect the negative influence of externalizing behaviour difficulties on engagement.…”