Individual Differences in Temperament: A Developmental Perspective

Temperament is widely defined as constitutionally based individual differences in reactivity and self-regulation, informed by biology, maturation, and experience. Temperament remains relatively stable yet develops over time. Moreover, its expression can be shaped by multiple factors, including biological processes, socialization/parenting practices, and cultural values, to name a few. Understanding these connections provides insight into adaptive and maladaptive temperament trajectories. Temperament is strongly related to personality and its development, also boding risk or protection with respect to clinical symptoms/disorders.