Most developmental psychologists believe that temperament:
a. Has a strong biological basis and is resistant to socialization efforts
b. Is largely a product of the socialization efforts of parents and other adults
c. Involves certain genetic dispositions, which are moderately open to socialization
d. Arises from the complex interaction of the genetic inheritance of the two parents
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is a. Has a strong biological basis and is resistant to socialization efforts.
Explanation:
Developmental psychologists generally agree that temperament refers to an individual’s characteristic mood, activity level, and emotional reactivity, which are believed to be largely biologically based. From early infancy, children display distinct temperamental traits, such as how easily they are soothed, their intensity of emotions, and their general mood. These temperamental differences are thought to have a strong genetic component, influenced by a child’s biological makeup and hereditary factors. For instance, certain traits like irritability, sociability, and emotional reactivity are believed to be innate and show stability over time.
Although temperamental traits are biologically influenced, this does not mean they are completely impervious to environmental factors. Socialization, which includes parenting and external influences, can impact how a child’s temperament is expressed or modulated, but it cannot fully change the foundational traits. For example, an impulsive child may still remain impulsive despite attempts to teach patience or self-control, although they may develop strategies to cope with or manage their impulses better as they grow older.
Option b is incorrect because, while socialization does play a role, temperament is not considered to be primarily a product of the socialization efforts of parents or adults. It has a stronger biological foundation.
Option c suggests that temperament is “moderately open to socialization,” which can be misleading. While environmental influences do play a role, they do not have as strong an effect on altering temperament traits as the biological basis does.
Option d presents the interaction of genetic inheritance, which is somewhat true in that temperament arises from both genetic factors and the environment, but the biological foundation is still more significant.
In conclusion, temperament is seen as an inherent trait, with a biological foundation that is difficult to change through socialization. However, environmental factors can help individuals develop ways to manage their temperamental characteristics.