Prediction of Anxiety and Behavioural Disturbances by Temperamental Characters in Children

Abstract

Background : Temperament is a predictive factor of child behaviour. Thomas and Chess evaluated relationship of temperamental factor with behavioural disturbance in social milo. Method : In this study, 500 children between 4 to 10 years old, who have been admitted for their behavioural disturbance and anxiety to Dr-Sheikh Children Hospital in Mashhad, Iran, have been chosen. The parents fill Malhotra questionnaire and Conner’s questionnaire. Then subscales of questionnaires are compared together. Result : Power and energy (activity) are the only factors which are in relation with conduct behaviour, impulsivity, hyperactivity and anxiety. Conclusion : Among temperament factor only power and energy (activity) have relation with conduct behaviour, impulsivity, hyperactivity and anxiety. Focus of attention (distractibility) is associated with hyperactivity. Sociability has no relationship with hyperactivity.