Externalizing Behaviors and Disorders

Externalizing disorders are outwardly directed reactions to external stressors and social situations, resulting in less positive self-perceptions and more conflict/discomfort for others. Externalizing behaviors may put us in conflict with teachers, with long-term consequences in social, school, and work environments. Behaviors are characterized by attention and habit disorders, hyperactive/impulsive/disruptive disorders (acting out, antisocial or oppositional behavior, hostility, aggression, rule or law-breaking). Externalizing symptoms are more common among boys, have earlier onset in childhood, and show higher persistence rates with more unfavorable outcomes (poor academic performance, antisocial behavior, poor mental health). High rates of comorbidity — aggression/oppositionality or hyperactivity/inattention — can eventually also include internalizing disorders, if untreated.