Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2026
06:15
A Modified Trier Social Stress Test for Vulnerable Mexican American Adolescents
Published on: July 10, 2017
[Externalizing behaviour problems of internationally adopted adolescents: a review]
1Service de Psychopathologie de l'Enfant et de l'Adolescent et de Psychiatrie Générale (Professeur Marie-Rose Moro), Hôpital Avicenne (APHP), Université Paris XIII.
L'Encephale
|August 7, 2007
Summary
International adoption is linked to a small increase in externalizing behavior problems in adolescents. However, adoption itself is not a risk factor; severe pre-adoption adversity may explain differences in behavior.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Adoption Studies
Context:
- International adoption impacts over 40,000 children annually.
- This review focuses on externalizing behavior problems in internationally adopted adolescents.
- Compares behavior in adopted versus non-adopted adolescents.
Purpose:
- To estimate the effects of international adoption on adolescent externalizing behavior problems.
- To examine the prevalence of externalizing behaviors in internationally adopted adolescents.
- To compare these behaviors with those of non-adopted adolescents.
Summary:
- A review of 10 studies and 2 meta-analyses (1990-2005) found a small increase in externalizing behavior problems among internationally adopted adolescents.
- Six studies indicated more problems, while four found no difference compared to non-adopted peers.
- Preadoption adversity was associated with higher externalizing problems in adopted adolescents.
Impact:
- Adoption itself is not identified as a risk factor for adolescent adjustment.
- Observed behavioral differences may stem from severe pre-placement adversity in a subset of adopted individuals.
- Highlights the need to consider preadoption history when assessing adolescent behavior.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Ethnic Identity within a Larger Culture
Adolescents from ethnic minority backgrounds face a multifaceted journey in forming their identities, shaped by the intersections of cultural expectations and personal exploration. For these adolescents, identity formation involves not only typical developmental challenges but also navigating the perceptions and attitudes of the majority culture. As they grow, adolescents in ethnic minority groups often become increasingly aware of stereotypes, social biases, and discrimination, all of which...
01:18Cognitive Development During Adolescence
During adolescence, individuals experience significant cognitive development that enhances their understanding of others' emotions and thoughts, known as cognitive empathy. This period is marked by an increased ability to adapt to others' perspectives and a more nuanced understanding of others' mental states, a skill that is foundational for social problem-solving and conflict avoidance. The development of cognitive empathy relies heavily on the theory of mind — the recognition that people have...
01:28Conduct Disorder
Conduct disorder is a complex mental health diagnosis characterized by a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior that violates societal norms, the rights of others, or age-appropriate rules. The diagnostic criteria for conduct disorder require the presence of at least three problematic behaviors within the past 12 months, with at least one occurring in the past six months. These behaviors are grouped into four categories: aggression toward people and animals; destruction of property;...
03:00Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification
Social psychologists have documented that feeling good about ourselves and maintaining positive self-esteem is a powerful motivator of human behavior (Tavris & Aronson, 2008). In the United States, members of the predominant culture typically think very highly of themselves and view themselves as good people who are above average on many desirable traits (Ehrlinger, Gilovich, & Ross, 2005). Often, our behavior, attitudes, and beliefs are affected when we experience a threat to our...
02:04Bullying
A modern form of aggression is bullying. As you learn in your study of child development, socializing and playing with other children is beneficial for children’s psychological development. However, as you may have experienced as a child, not all play behavior has positive outcomes. Some children are aggressive and want to play roughly. Other children are selfish and do not want to share toys. One form of negative social interactions among children that has become a national concern is bullying.
01:20Social Foundations of Self II: The Generalized Other
According to George Herbert Mead, as children progress beyond the game stage, they develop a more comprehensive understanding of societal rules and norms. This cognitive and social development enables them to internalize the expectations of the broader community, refining their ability to regulate behavior.Consistent participation in organized activities is crucial in helping children recognize that their actions are not isolated but contribute to a more significant, interconnected group effort.