Externalizing spectrum or spectra? Underlying dimensions of the externalizing spectrum

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Psychology
• Genetics

Background:

• Major psychiatric disorders are conceptualized into internalizing and externalizing spectra.
• Externalizing disorders include disruptive behavior disorders (DBD), antisocial personality disorder (ASPD), and substance use disorders, sharing common personality traits.
• Research is needed to explore the dimensionality of the externalizing spectrum in non-Western populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the underlying dimensionality of the externalizing spectrum in a mixed clinical and non-clinical sample.
• To examine shared personality traits across disruptive behavior disorders, antisocial personality disorder, and substance use disorders.

Main Methods:

• 100 subjects with alcohol dependence (AD) and 100 controls were recruited.
• Semi-Structured Assessment for Genetics of Alcoholism (SSAGA-IV) was used to assess DBD and ASPD.
• Validated instruments measured impulsivity, sensation seeking, and hostility; factor analysis was performed.

Main Results:

• Factor analysis identified two primary dimensions within the externalizing spectrum.
• The first dimension, 'disruptive-dissocial,' encompassed conduct disorder, ASPD, and oppositional defiant disorder.
• The second dimension, 'impulsive-hostile,' included alcohol dependence and all assessed personality traits.

Conclusions:

• The externalizing spectrum appears to comprise at least two distinct dimensions: disruptive-dissocial and impulsive-hostile.
• These findings may have significant implications for the understanding and management of psychiatric and psychological issues.
• Further confirmation in diverse samples is warranted.