Behavioral profiles of children with different levels of achievement

This study examines the relative importance of three behavioral dimensions to reading and mathematics achievement of elementary school children. Previous research on the dimensions which characterize the school behavior of children has shown that these dimensions can be understood as reflecting (a) an adaptation or learning problems dimension, (b) an interpersonal or a social problem dimension, and (c) an intrapersonal or personal adjustment dimension. Scores for each dimension were derived from a cluster analysis of the Pupil Behavior Rating Scale. Based on results of the cluster analysis, subjects were assigned to 12 behavioral typology groups. Analysis of variance showed that behavior typologies were related to both reading and mathematics achievement test scores. Post hoc contrasts revealed that levels of reading achievement are associated primarily with behaviors defined by attributes of the adaptation dimension, and that differences in measures of interpersonal and interpersonal dimensions do not contribute appreciably to group differences in reading and mathematics achievement.