Electroencephalography and externalizing behavior: A meta-analysis

• A meta-analysis of electroencephalography (EEG) in externalizing behaviors was conducted.
• Behaviors included ADHD, disruptive behavior disorders, and antisocial behavior.
• Externalizing participants had higher delta and theta activity than controls.
• Externalizing participants had lower beta activity than controls.
• Effects were similar across ADHD versus other behaviors.

Electroencephalography (EEG) has been used to examine the possibility of dysfunctional brain activity in externalizing behavior, but findings across studies have been inconsistent. Furthermore, studies of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) versus other externalizing behaviors, such as disruptive behavior disorders or antisocial behavior, have developed parallel literatures. The purpose of the present study was to reconcile these two literatures. A meta-analysis of 62 studies of EEG power at rest in relationship to externalizing behaviors was performed. Results of the meta-analyses showed significantly higher delta (Hedges's g = 0.25) and theta power (g = 0.40) and lower beta power (g = −0.22) in externalizing participants compared to controls. Alpha (g = −0.26) and gamma power (g = −0.26) were marginally lower in externalizing samples. Results were not moderated by type of externalizing behavior. Overall, the results of the meta-analyses were consistent with the hypoarousal theory of externalizing behavior.