
The study revealed callous-unemotional (CU) traits as a strong predictor of externalizing psychopathology in adolescents, with links to elevated symptoms of conduct disorder (CD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and ADHD, as well as increased self-reported aggression. These associations were tested through dimensional (n=11,868) and propensity-matched (n=1,224) models, controlling for sociodemographic risk factors. The relationship between CU traits and externalizing behaviors was held independently of cognitive difficulties, with no moderation effects observed between cognitive function and aggression. Results highlight CU traits as a unique and stable risk factor for externalizing psychopathology beyond cognitive challenges.
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