Temperament, family dysfunction and behavior problems in children

Abstract

Seventy-four mothers and their children were subjects of this research in which the temperament of the child was studied as a possible mediator of child behavior problems in more dysfunctional families. The sample consisted of families with alcoholic parents, anxiety disordered parents, and normals.;The measure of temperament used was the Dimensions of Temperament Survey. The measure of marital adjustment was the Dyadic Adjustment Scale, and the measure of child behavior problems was the Child Behavior Checklist.;The hypothesis that temperament was a mediator of child behavior in more dysfunctional families was not supported, although individual relationships of temperament and marital adjustment with child behavior problems were seen to be significant.;Sample improvements and additional instruments are recommended for further study in this area.