Appreciating Temperamental Differences

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Thomas and Chess, Rothbart, Kagan, and other researchers have provided valuable systems for classifying and understanding temperament in infants and children. From the earliest months, infants show consistent individual differences in how they respond to their surroundings. Some infants approach new things and new people as if they want to explore and learn more. Others withdraw. Some are hesitant at first but gradually warm up. To some extent these early tendencies carry through into childhood, affecting children's social interactions. Some children have a low tolerance for unfamiliar stimuli, and they often become very shy. Others have high arousal thresholds and may seek intense and thrilling experiences.

Children are not all alike, and we cannot treat them all alike. Think back to our twin baby daughters. Lily enjoyed the bouncing, hugs, and kisses showered on her by our friends. For Rachel, however, this same treatment would have been very upsetting. Steve and Sue recognized this and adapted their approach to provide a better fit for her temperament, thus demonstrating sensitive responsiveness. Recognizing different temperaments and providing a good fit is important for parents, teachers, day care providers, counselors, and anyone else who works closely with infants and children. Children will react differently to us depending on their own temperaments.

Temperament also acts as a filter for processing information. Children who are more outgoing, sociable, and positive in their outlook will differ from children who are more shy and withdrawn in how they process current experiences, how they remember the past, and what they expect from the future. By recognizing these differences and making the appropriate adjustments, we can foster the healthy emotional development of each child.