Prevalence and Late-Infancy Predictors of Persistent Externalizing Problems During Early Childhood: Child and Family Factors to Consider for Early Screening

Abstract

This study determined prevalence and late-infancy predictors of persistent externalizing problems during early-childhood for screening in clinical practice. 1353 primary-caregivers with 8-month infants were recruited systematically from universal well-child centers and followed to 4–5 years (‘Families in Mind’ population-based randomized trial). Externalizing problems were measured by Child Behavior Checklist at 2, 3 and 4–5 years; child/family predictors at 8–12 months. Four percent of toddlers developed persistent externalizing problems of clinical concern (≥2 time-points). Key late-infancy predictors were primary-caregiver distress, harsh discipline and low nurturing. Findings suggest benefits of screening these family factors in late-infancy via universal services to identify early-starters’.