Prevalence and characteristics of internalising and externalising problems in children In children, internalising problems manifest as emotional difficulties, such as excessive shyness, withdrawal, and somatic complaints (Xxxxxxxxx & Xxxxxxxxx, 1983; APA, 2013). Anxiety and depression are among the most common childhood psychiatric disorders, with global prevalence estimates ranging from 1.3% to 3.2% across ages 5-19 years (WHO, 2022). Externalising problems, such as conduct disorders and attention-deficit/hyper-active disorder (ADHD), are also prevalent among children worldwide. Research conducted in 2019 indicated that ADHD affected approximately 0.3 to 2.6% of children and adolescents, while the global prevalence of conduct disorders was estimated to be around 2.3% (WHO, 2022). Externalising problems typically manifest as impulsive and disruptive behaviours, aggression, difficulties in self-control, and poor attention span (Xxxxxxxxx & Xxxxxxxxx, 1983; APA, 2013). Childhood onset internalising and externalising problems have been associated with impairments in social and academic functioning, and with later mental health disorders and worse prognoses in adulthood (Xxxxxx et al., 2002; Xxxx et al., 1997; Xxxxxxx & Xxxxx, 2001; Xxxxxxxx et al., 2019; Xxxx et al., 1998).
