Externalizing and Internalizing Behaviour of Adolescents: A Gender Difference
Saswati Pragnya Sahoo1; Dr. Subhasmita Panda2Adolescence is the most turbulent period during which externalizing and internalizing behaviours emerge. Although there are increasing trends in internalizing and externalizing issues, a paucity of research examines the gender disparities in these behavioural concerns. This study seeks to elucidate the influence of gender on the externalizing and internalizing behaviours of adolescents. The sample consists of 30 students, conveniently drawn from both male and female adolescents between the ages range 16 to 18 years. Their behavioural issues were assessed using the Child Behaviour Checklist (CBCL) questionnaires. An independent sample t-test was used to investigate gender-specific discrepancies in externalizing and internalizing behaviours. The statistical analysis reveals that female adolescents exhibit a higher incidence of internalizing behaviour compared to their male counterparts, while male adolescents display a greater propensity towards externalizing behaviour. Moreover, female adolescents demonstrate a higher prevalence of comorbid behaviour (both internalizing and externalizing) compared to their male adolescents. Externalizing behaviours such as rule-breaking and aggression are predominantly observed among male adolescents rather than females. Internalizing behaviours, encompassing anxiety, withdrawal, and somatic complaints, are more commonly observed among adolescent females than males.