Child Temperament Factors in Relation to Child Aggression and Parental Behaviours

Abstract

Child temperament disorders are commonly categorized as disruptive behaviour disorders, including Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), and Conduct Disorder, which are often associated with conduct problems during childhood. These disorders have received significant research attention due to their strong association with juvenile delinquency, adult criminal behaviour, and antisocial tendencies. Early identification studies have shown that children at risk for temperament problems frequently display aggressive behaviours at a young age. The present study aimed to assess the relationship between child temperament factors, child aggression, and parental behaviours among mothers of children aged 5–10 years residing in Jolly Grant Village, Dehradun, Uttarakhand. A quantitative longitudinal research design was adopted. The target population included mothers of children within the specified age group, and a sample of 85 participants was selected using a convenience sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured tool consisting of nine sections: demographic profile, socioeconomic status scale, maternal personality trait scale, maternal monitoring scale, harsh parental discipline scale, parental deficiency scale, tasks assessing negative affectivity in children, behavioural tasks measuring self-regulation, and a child behaviour questionnaire. The findings indicated that demographic characteristics, socioeconomic status, and harsh parental discipline were positively associated with higher levels of aggressive behaviour in children. Maternal Positive Emotionality showed a slight association with reduced aggression. In contrast, Maternal Negative Emotionality and parental deficiency were linked to increased aggression, whereas better self-regulation in children was associated with lower level of aggressive behaviour.