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No Robust Evidence for Cross-Lagged Effects Between Self-Esteem and Externalizing Problems: A Longitudinal
Xiaowei Chu1,2, Ting Liao1,2, Han Sun1,2
1Zhejiang Philosophy and Social Science Laboratory for the Mental Health and Crisis Intervention of Children and Adolescents, School of Psychology, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, 321004, China.
Journal of Youth and Adolescence
|July 27, 2026
Summary
This meta-analysis found no significant longitudinal link between self-esteem and externalizing problems. Neither self-esteem nor externalizing behaviors predicted changes in the other over time in adolescents.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Adolescent Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- The longitudinal relationship between self-esteem and externalizing problems is complex and findings are inconsistent.
- Previous research suggests a potential bidirectional link, but the directionality and strength of this association require further clarification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically synthesize longitudinal research examining the bidirectional relationship between self-esteem and externalizing problems in adolescents.
- To investigate whether self-esteem predicts subsequent externalizing problems or vice versa.
- To explore potential moderating factors influencing this relationship.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive meta-analysis of longitudinal studies was conducted, involving a systematic search of six databases.
- Inclusion criteria were applied to 27 articles (25 independent samples) with 38,489 participants (mean age 12.04 years).
- Bivariate correlations and cross-lagged panel models were used to analyze the data, controlling for baseline levels.
Main Results:
- Initial bivariate correlations showed weak negative associations between self-esteem and externalizing problems.
- However, cross-lagged panel models revealed no significant predictive relationship in either direction after controlling for baseline levels.
- These non-significant findings were consistent across various demographic and methodological moderators.
Conclusions:
- The study clarifies that self-esteem does not longitudinally predict externalizing problems, nor do externalizing problems predict self-esteem in adolescents.
- Educators should be cautious about using self-esteem interventions for externalizing problems or solely relying on reducing externalizing behaviors to boost self-esteem.
- Findings suggest that interventions targeting self-esteem or externalizing behaviors independently may not be effective for addressing the other in the long term.
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