Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 6, 2026

Comparing Eye-tracking Data of Children with High-functioning ASD, Comorbid ADHD, and of a Control Watching Social Videos
Published on: December 7, 2018
Conceptual Intersections of Autistic Characteristics, Internalizing and Externalizing Behaviors, and Personality in
Margo M J Dewitte1, Ruth Van der Hallen2, Peter Prinzie3
1Department of Special Needs Education, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Ghent University, Henri Dunantlaan 2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium. Margo.Dewitte@UGent.be.
Purpose:
This study aimed to investigate the interrelations between autistic characteristics, internalizing and externalizing behaviors, and personality traits in autistic youth. While these psychological constructs are individually well-established, their simultaneous associations have not been comprehensively assessed.
Methods:
A sample of 434 parents of autistic children and adolescents (ages 6-18; M = 11.5 years, SD = 3.0; 69% boys) completed standardized questionnaires assessing their child's autistic characteristics (SRS-2, RBS-R), internalizing and externalizing behaviors (CBCL), and and Five Factor personality traits (HiPIC). Network analysis was employed to explore how the intersections of these constructs when assessed as a comprehensive system.
Results:
Results showed clear associations between personality and both internalizing and externalizing problems in the network, suggesting personality and internalizing/externalizing are distinct yet related constructs. In contrast, core autistic characteristics appeared more distantly linked. Strong inverse associations emerged between Benevolence and Externalizing problems, and between Emotional Stability and Internalizing difficulties.
Conclusion:
These findings underscore the need for integrative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches addressing autistic, internalizing/externalizing, and personality-based behavior patterns. Such approaches may enhance individualized support and intervention planning by accounting for the complex interplay between these psychological domains.
Related Concept Videos
Autism Spectrum Disorder
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
Modeling in Therapy
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in...
Personality Disorders: Narcissistic and Avoidant
Characteristics of Narcissistic Personality Disorder
Narcissistic individuals exhibit an inflated sense of self-importance and an excessive need for admiration. They are often...
Implicit Personality Theories
Personality Disorders: Paranoid and Schizoid
Paranoid Personality Disorder
Paranoid personality disorder is...
Social Foundations of Self II: The Generalized Other

