Summary

This study explored the influence of family interaction styles upon the ego development of male adolescents in the Chilean judiciary system (cases) and students ofthe same age and socio-economic level (controls). We studied 75 families measuring parental and sons's ego development using the WUSCT, its psychosocial risk using CTF and CSF- Brief from Rodríguez. The family interaction was evaluated using the EIF by Hauser, that classifies family interaction styles. The groups studied differed in al] the measurements resulting cases the least cnabling and most restraining group in its interaction style. They also presented a Iower leve] of Ego development and more risky aspects in its family functioning.