Internalizing Problems From 6 to 11 Years: Trajectory and Ecological Predictors

• In Event: Poster Session 12
  In Poster Session: Children's Social and Emotional Adjustment

Abstract

This study focuses on mother-reported internalizing problems from 6 to 11 years in a large sample of Australian children (N = 3153). The temporal significance of explanatory factors at two time points was investigated. The analytic approach extends prior work by modeling and testing for longitudinal measurement invariance in internalizing problems. The results of latent growth curve modeling describe an increasing trajectory of internalizing problems over time with initial levels predicted by concurrent (6-7 years) emotional dysregulation, externalizing problems, peer problems, maternal mental health problems, and angry parenting, as well as earlier (4-5 years) maternal mental health. Escalation in internalizing problems was predicted by earlier (4-5 years) externalizing problems, maternal mental health, and age 6-7 emotional dysregulation.

Authors

• Cen Wang, Charles Sturt University

• Kate Williams

• Ameneh Shahaeian

• Linda J. Harrison, Charles Sturt University