Evidence for the continuity of early problem behaviors: Application of a developmental model

Evidence of the continuity of early problem behaviors in young girls and bo ys was examined developmentally. Data were gathered on 104 mother-child dya ds from low-income families when children were between 1 and 5 years of age . Difficult temperament, aggression, and noncompliance from 12 to 24 months , and externalizing and internalizing problems at 36 and 60 months, were as sessed. The results provide evidence for the continuity of early behavioral and emotional problems and support for the early differentiation between i nternalizing and externalizing problems. Implications of the current findin gs for prevention efforts are presented.