Temperament and internalizing problems in middle childhood.

摘要

This study draws on a developmental psychopathology perspective to examine the cumulative influences of temperament and life stress in the family context on increases in internalizing problems from ages 4 to 7. Data from the Right Track project was used. Multiple dimensions of temperament that have commonly been linked with internalizing problems were assessed at age 4, including Fear, Shyness, Sadness. Six types of life stress in the family context were measured at age 5. Internalizing problems were measured with the CBCL at age 7. Correlational analyses were run, and in multiple regression analyses, internalizing problems at age 7 were regressed on temperament at age 4, and life stress at age 5. It was found that all temperament variables were associated with internalizing problems. Maternal psychopathology and parental stress were also associated with internalizing problems, but maternal marital status, number of siblings, socioeconomic status, and life events were not associated with internalizing problems. Cumulative measures of temperament and life stress did not more strongly predict internalizing problems than the individual variables of which they were composed. Additionally, the association between temperament and internalizing problems was not moderated by life stress. Limitations and future directions are discussed.