Early externalizing behavior problems: Toddlers and preschoolers at risk for later maladjustment

The early emergence and developmental implications of externalizing behavio r problems in toddlers and preschoolers are discussed with an emphasis on w hich young children are truly at risk for continuing problems. The extant l iterature is reviewed with a focus on the stability of early externalizing behavior and the diverse pathways that young children, primarily boys, with early-emerging problems may follow. Findings from a number of studies, bot h epidemiological and high risk, suggest that the small subgroup of boys wi th multiple risk factors that include especially high levels of early hyper activity and aggression, and high levels of negative parenting and family s tress, are most likely to evidence continuing problems at school entry. Soc iodemographic and neighborhood influences are also discussed, as are implic ations For Future research and policy.