Developmental trajectories of externalizing behavior from ages 4 to 12: Prenatal cocaine exposure and adolescent correlates

Externalizing behavior refers to overt behavior problems that are characterized by impulsivity and lack of self-regulation (Tucker et al., 2015). It typically involves conflicts with other people (Achenbach and Rescorla, 2001), such as aggression, rule-breaking, and disruptive behavior. Externalizing behavior in childhood is associated with school failure, peer problems, and juvenile delinquency; it is also a well-established precursor to substance use (King et al., 2004; Iacono et al., 2008) and sexual risk behaviors (Min et al., 2015, 2016).

Source: Drug and Alcohol Dependence - September 21, 2018 Category: Addiction Authors: Meeyoung O. Min, Sonia Minnes, Hyungyong Park, Ty Ridenour, June-Yung Kim, Miyoung Yoon, Lynn T. Singer Source Type: research