Child and adolescent internalizing and externalizing traits, and epigenetic summary scores: A scoping review

2025/11/01 by Erin B. Ware, Joshua A. Goode, Uma N Hornish +12 · 1 voice
Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology · #Epigenetics and DNA Methylation #Genetics and Neurodevelopmental Disorders #Genetic Syndromes and Imprinting

paper · doi:10.1016/j.biopsycho.2025.109164

openalex publication_date 2025/11/01 · openalex created_date 2025/11/19 · openalex updated_date 2026/06/24

Abstract

To better understand the relationship between DNA methylation summary measures and childhood behavioral and emotional problems, this scoping review synthesizes current research on the associations between DNA methylation and internalizing or externalizing traits or behaviors in children and adolescents. By identifying which psychological phenotypes are most consistently linked to DNA methylation summary measures and contextualizing research practices, this review highlights key methodological trends and gaps in the literature. Future research should include diverse and representative samples to enhance the generalizability and robustness of findings. Careful control for genetic ancestry, potential confounders, and adoption of standardized methodologies are important for improving the precision and interpretability of results. Additionally, a comprehensive examination of literature employing alternative DNA methylation methodologies, including epigenome-wide studies and pathway-based analytical approaches oriented toward mechanistic investigation, would afford greater insight into the interplay between DNAm and internalizing and externalizing symptomatology.

Citations

• External validation is necessary in prediction research:
• Lifetime Prevalence and Age-of-Onset Distributions of DSM-IV Disorders in the National Comorbidity Survey Replication
• The age of adolescence
• PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR): Checklist and Explanation
• How Many Participants Do I Need to Test an Interaction? Conducting an Appropriate Power Analysis and Achieving Sufficient Power to Detect an Interaction
• Maternal pre-pregnancy BMI and gestational weight gain, offspring DNA methylation and later offspring adiposity: findings from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children
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Discussions

• Causes behind childhood mental health problems classed as internalizing (e.g., anxiety, depression) or externalizing (aggression, ADHD) aren't fully known, but epigentics may play a role. A new scopin [bsky, 1 points, 1 comments]

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