Question

Define temperament. Thomas and Chess described 9 dimensions of temperament and used these 9 dimensions to create 3 categories or types of temperament. What are the 9 dimensions that Thomas and Chess identified? Name and define each of the three temperament categories described by Thomas and Chess and give the percentage of infants that are identified in each category.

Answer 1

Temperament is defined as the nature/behavior of an individuals. It deals with the difference in behavior of individuals for the same situation.

9 dimensions that Thomas and Chess identified are as follows:

1. Activity level: It is defined as the physical energy utilized by the child during different activities and behavior on daily basis.

2. Regularity: It is defined as the systematic daily routine of child for various activity (running,walking,eating,sleeping, watching).

3. Sensitivity: It is the reaction of the child due to changing environmental condition.

4. Approach and withdrawal: It is the response of a child when he/she face new situations.

5. Adaptability: It is the ability of a child to how quickly or slowly adapt himself in a new situation or in new environmental condition.

6. Mood: It is the inclination of a child to show expression (happy/sad) towards any kind of situation.

7. Intensity: It is the level of reaction (lough/cries/hate/responsibility) towards any response.

8. Persistence: It is the determination of a child to continue and stick with a task without giving up.

9. Distractibility: It is the tendency of a child to get distract from outside sources (noise/interruptions) or unexpected stimulus

The three temperament categories described by Thomas and Chess are as follows:

Easy / Flexible Child: These child's are regular in basic body rhythm, their mood swing are positive can easily adapts to new situation. ( about 40% of children)

Difficult Child: Such child have high activity level, their mood swing are negative and used to cry frequently, slow in approaching new people and situations. (about 10% of children)

Slow to Warm Up Child: These child have low activity level, slow in approaching to new people and situations. (about 15% of children)