Considering the implications of behaviour and learning problems on the adolescents' healthy development, the present study aimed to: (1) characterize the social performance of adolescents with and without learning problems; (2) compare the social performance of female and male adolescents, with and without learning problems. 848 adolescents from different schools in Portugal completed a questionnaire concerning their life styles and socio-demographic data. The results showed that: (a) adolescents without learning difficulties reported more acceptance by their peers, more assertive skills and fewer behaviour problems; (b) there were no differences between males and females on assertive skills and behaviour problems; (c) male adolescents reported more acceptance by their peers and more possibilities to present learning difficulties. Challenges for the accomplishment of the socialization function of schools and for healthy and welfare politics are discussed
Learning; social competence; adolescence
