Internalizing Behaviors and Disorders:

Internalizing behaviors and disorders are inwardly focused emotional reactions to stressors, social situations, and others’ emotions—and can cause tension, unease, and suffering (common in children and teens). Internalizing behaviors are processes within the self, such as anxiety disorders, mood (depression), eating disorders, social withdrawal, and somatization (psychological causes for physical symptoms). Boys show more symptoms during childhood, but more symptoms are reported for teenage girls/young women — with greater long-term stability. They can be hard to detect, so people may need help to understand/express their emotions and self-advocate. High rates of comorbidity include anxiety/social withdrawal). Along with externalizing behaviors and disorders, internalizing disorders are associated with negative outcomes (poor academic performance, antisocial behavior, poor mental health).