Exploring The Role of Temperament as an Early Indicator of Problematic Behavior among Adolescents in India

Abstract

Background: This study looks at the connection between temperament traits and problem behavior in young people, focusing on adolescents in India. Temperament includes traits rooted in biology, such as activation control, inhibitory control, high intensity pleasure, and shyness. These traits play an important role in shaping how individuals respond emotionally and behaviorally. Aim: The research aimed to see if these traits could act as early signs of internalizing behaviors, like anxiety and depression, and externalizing behaviors, such as aggression and impulsivity. Methods: A sample of 100 Indian adolescents, aged 11 to 18 years, took part in the study. Data were collected using the Early Adolescent Temperament Questionnaire – Revised (EATQ-R) and the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), and analyzed using Pearson correlation. Findings: The results showed significant correlations: activation control was positively linked to internalizing behaviors, high intensity pleasure had a negative link with internalizing behaviors, and inhibitory control was negatively linked to externalizing behaviors. Conclusion: These findings emphasize the value of temperament in identifying youth at risk and support using temperament-based screening in early intervention strategies. Implications: The study offers important insights for educators, parents, and mental health professionals who are working to support the behavioral and emotional well-being of young people in diverse cultural settings.