Internalizing and externalizing disorders in childhood and adolescence: A latent transition analysis using ALSPAC data.
Research examining the association between internalizing and externalizing dimensions of psychopathology has relied heavily on variable-centered analytical techniques. Person-centered methodologies complement the variable-centered approach, and may help explain the medium-to-large correlations that exist between higher order dimensions of psychopathology. What little person-centered research exists has been cross-sectional and utilized adult samples. The present study sought to take a person-centered approach to the modeling of psychiatric comorbidity during a key developmental phase; middle childhood through adolescence.



Analysis was conducted on data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC, N=9282). Latent transition analysis (LTA) was conducted using eight DSM-IV disorders assessed at ages 7.5 and 14years as measured indicators.



At both time points, a four class solution provided the best fit, with classes labeled as (i) normative, (ii) primarily internalizing, (iii) primarily externalizing, and (iv) high-risk/multimorbid. There was considerable individual-level stability across time, with approximately 80% of children remaining in the same class at both time points. Those in the internalizing class at baseline were more likely to transition to a less severe class (i.e., the normative class).



Person-centered methodologies demonstrate that the association between internalizing and externalizing is accounted for by a sub-population at high risk for experiencing psychiatric comorbidity, and 'cross-class' disorders which link the internalizing and externalizing spectra.
Ulster University, Londonderry BT48 7JL, Northern Ireland, UK. Electronic address: mcelroy-e1@email.ulster.ac.uk.
Eoin
E
McElroy
Ulster University, Londonderry BT48 7JL, Northern Ireland, UK.
Mark
M
Shevlin
Ulster University, Londonderry BT48 7JL, Northern Ireland, UK.
Jamie
J
Murphy
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D002653:Child Behavior Disorders / Q000523:psychology*; D015897:Comorbidity; D003674:Defense Mechanisms; D039721:Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D010290:Parents / Q000523:psychology; D011599:Psychopathology; D013997:Time Factors