Parent-referred problem three-year-olds: developmental changes in symptoms.

Parent-referred problem three-yr-olds whose externalizing problems had improved by age six were compared with children whose problems persisted and with controls on symptom ratings obtained from mothers at ages three, four and six. Children who improved and those with persistent problems were initially rated high on overactivity, concentration difficulties and disobedience. Improved youngsters did not differ initially from controls on ratings of peer problems and other signs of antisocial behavior but children with persistent problems did. Groups also showed differential patterns of developmental change. The data suggest that both the nature and intensity of problems distinguish between children who do and do not outgrow their early difficulties.