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From traits to trajectories: How changes in reactive temperament relate to the development of externalizing symptoms
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DOI：10.1017/S0954579426101278.png)
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Abstract
En 中文
Temperament has been linked to the development of externalizing symptoms; but the nature of these associations remains unclear. Traditional approaches often treat early reactive temperament as static; overlooking developmental variation. This study applied a longitudinal latent change score model to examine how levels and changes in Negative Affect (NA) and Surgency from age 3 to 5 predict Conduct Problems (CP) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms in early childhood. Data from the National Educational Panel Study (N = 2; 477) were analyzed. Temperament was assessed at ages 3; 4; and 5 using the Children’s Behavior Questionnaire; and CP and ADHD symptoms were measured at ages 5; 6; and 8 with the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Measurement invariance was established. Significant individual differences in developmental change emerged. Change in NA and Surgency; but not baseline levels; predicted higher latent CP and ADHD symptom levels at age 5 and further increases through age 8. These findings indicate that intraindividual change in reactive temperament can be a relevant marker of developmental risk. Temperamental risk for externalizing symptoms in early childhood is not fixed but may be shaped by both stable dispositions and developmental change; highlighting the importance of assessing temperament development to identify early emerging risk.
Keywords:
ADHD
externalizing
longitudinal
preschool
temperament
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