Recently, researchers have focused on a group of children and youth who are
at: high risk for developing a lifelong pernicious pattern of antisocial a
nd delinquent behavior. These children exhibit a behavior pattern character
ized by hyperactivity-impulsivity-inattention coupled with conduct problems
such as fighting, stealing, truancy, noncompliance, and arguing. These stu
dents have been referred to as "fledgling psychopaths" and appear to be hig
hly resistant to interventions. In this article we review the literature on
this group of students in terms of epidemiology and prognosis. Procedures
for early identification of these students will be described and discussed.
Key themes surrounding this early identification process are iu proactive
nature and resistance to intervention as bases for decision making concerni
ng these students.