Behavioural Problems in Adolescence

Abstract Adolescence is a period of rapid and overlapping biological, cognitive, and social transformation that heightens vulnerability to psychological difficulties. The present study examined the prevalence, severity, and co-occurrence of emotional and behavioural problems among adolescents aged 11 to 18 years. Using a quantitative cross-sectional design, data were collected from 302 school-going students (158 males, 144 females) through the Youth Self-Report (YSR; Achenbach & Rescorla, 2001). Findings indicated that a substantial proportion of participants reported moderate to high levels of both internalizing symptoms—including anxiety, depression, and somatic complaints—and externalizing difficulties, such as aggression and rule-breaking. Correlation analyses revealed robust positive associations between internalizing and externalizing domains, challenging the traditional view of these as separate and independent problem clusters. The results suggest that unresolved emotional distress frequently manifests as visible behavioural difficulties. These findings highlight the need for schools to adopt proactive, multi-tiered mental health programmes that address both the emotional and behavioural dimensions of adolescent wellbeing.