externalizing

Externalizing is a term used in psychology, psychotherapy, and social sciences to describe processes or behaviors that are directed outward, projecting internal states such as emotions, thoughts, or problems onto others or the external environment.

In clinical psychology, externalizing behaviors are outward-directed actions such as aggression, defiance, rule-breaking, and impulsivity. They are commonly contrasted with internalizing problems like anxiety and depression. Externalizing problems are particularly observed in children and adolescents and are associated with conditions such as ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, or conduct disorder, reflecting the interaction of genetic, neurobiological, and environmental factors.

In therapy, externalizing is a narrative technique used to treat problems by treating the problem as a separate entity from the person. Originating in narrative therapy, externalizing conversations aim to reduce blame and increase agency, for example by naming “the Monster” of Fear or “the Procrastination” that the client battles.

In economics and sociology, externalizing describes costs, risks, or environmental impacts shifted to others rather than borne by the producer or actor. Externalities can be positive or negative and often motivate policy or organizational changes to align private incentives with broader social welfare.

See also externality, internalizing, conduct disorder, ADHD.