Infant temperaments show cultural values?

Maria Gartstein, an associate professor of psychology, developed the Infant Behavioral Questionnaire (IBO) to identify, measure, and record children behavior, between 6 and 12 months.

Hofstede’s research reveals that people’s behavior reflects their cultural values.  Psychologies made a connection between culture and infants temperament.  The parent unique cultural values reflect

“Dutch babies laugh, smile and like to cuddle more than their American counterparts” (Ferguson, 2015).

In the US babies are stimulated and exposed to new experiences to encourage independence.  Dutch babies are happier; they are content with routine activities and easier to come or soothe when upset.  Dutch infant sleeps more on the regular schedule and revives less stimulation.   American babies express a high level of fear, frustration, and their ability to decrease their own distress is lower level.

“The influence temperament has on developing behavioral problems likely varies from one country to another,” Gartstein said. “If we are aiming to prevent behavioral problems, which are a known precursor for more serious psychological problems, we need to know more about the values, and expectations parents bring to the child-rearing table” (Ferguson, 2015)

Gartstein is hoping for a cross-cultural research including countries all over the world.  The data from around the world will “help to understand universal and culture-specific aspects of socio-emotional development” (Ferguson, 2015)

References

Ferguson, W. (2015, January 27). Infant temperaments may reflect parents’ cultural values | WSU News | Washington State University. Retrieved December 02, 2017, from https://news.wsu.edu/2015/01/27/infant-temperaments-may-reflect-parents-cultural-values/