Synthesis and Implications

Abstract

We conclude this volume by synthesizing the body of findings resulting from the Fullerton Longitudinal Study with respect to numerous issues. Findings germane to the understanding of the developmental course of temperament and the significance of individual differences in youngsters temperament for their development in the domains of personality, behavioral adjustment, intelligence, and school functioning are first addressed. Individual differences in children’s temperament interface with their home and family contexts of development, yielding additional clues as to the mechanisms by which temperament and developmental outcomes may come to be related. In support of the parental report methodology, results from the FLS yielded strong evidence regarding the predictive and construct validity of parent reports of children’s temperament. The interaction of individual differences in temperament with contexts of development, subject variables, and developmental differences in other domains have only begun to be examined. However, findings from the FLS demonstrate that even aspects of temperament assessed as early as 1.5 years have long-term sequelae, both through direct main effects and also through interactions with developmental contexts, and that early differences in temperament are associated not only with developmental risk, but also can serve as assets that may facilitate or enhance not only the children’s context of development but also their developmental trajectory.