Temperamental profiles of dysregulated children

Child Psychiatry Hum Dev. 2012 Aug;43(4):511-22. doi: 10.1007/s10578-012-0280-7.

Abstract

It is crucial to characterize self-regulation in children. We compared the temperamental profiles of children with the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) Dysregulation Profile (CBCL-DP) to profiles associated with other CBCL-derived syndromes. 382 children (204 boys; aged 5-18) from a large family study were examined. Temperamental profiles were based on the Juvenile Temperament and Character Inventory. Children with the CBCL-DP had a temperamental profile characterized by high Novelty Seeking, high Harm Avoidance, low Reward Dependence and low Persistence. Linear mixed models and regression-based models demonstrated that the CBCL-DP was associated with a "disengaged" temperamental profile. This profile is similar to the profile seen in adult disorders of self-regulation, including cluster B personality disorders. These results support the hypothesis that the CBCL-DP measures poor self-regulation.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Child Behavior / psychology*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mood Disorders / diagnosis
  • Mood Disorders / psychology
  • Personality Assessment
  • Personality Disorders / diagnosis
  • Personality Disorders / psychology
  • Social Control, Informal*
  • Temperament*