Externalizing behavior problems encompass a wide range of acting out behavior difficulties with the (external) environment, including behaviors such as aggression, bullying, conduct problems, callousness, inattention, hyperactivity, oppositionality, rule breaking, defiance, substance use, and disruptive behavior.
Externalizing problems are prevalent in school-aged children and are costly and burdensome to individuals, families, schools, and society. Externalizing problems are disruptive to classrooms and make it challenging for educators to focus on teaching and for the child and classroom to learn. Moreover, early externalizing problems can predict later, more severe problems like violence if left untreated, so accurate assessment of externalizing problems is crucial to ensure children and adolescents receive the services they need.
In this practice brief, Dr. Isaac T. Petersen helps clinicians and school psychologists conduct accurate assessments of externalizing behavior in school-aged children to support effective intervention and prevention.