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Psychology Quote by Mary Sheedy Kurcinka

“Today temperament continues to be a major focus of researchers in the fields of psychology, anthropology, physiology, and neurobiology. While they agree about the reality of temperament and the important role it plays in how children experience their world, they tend to use a variety of names to…” quote by Mary Sheedy Kurcinka
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““Today temperament continues to be a major focus of researchers in the fields of psychology, anthropology, physiology, and neurobiology. While they agree about the reality of temperament and the important role it plays in how children experience their world, they tend to use a variety of names to describe the temperament traits. I choose to use the terms coined by Dr. Stella Chess and the late Dr. Alexander Thomas because of their positive, parent-friendly approach. They include not only our typical energy level but also our speed in adjusting to new situations; the intensity of our emotions; our sensitivity to sights, sounds, smells, feelings, and tastes; and more. A child who is temperamentally active not only likes to move but needs to move. Telling this child to sit still for extended periods of time, and that he could do it if he really wanted to, is like telling you to ignore a full bladder. The pressure builds—a need that is inside and real.””

Mary Sheedy Kurcinka

About This Quote

Source Book: Parenting Temperament, Dr. Stella Chess & Dr. Alexander Thomas, 1990

Children’s temperament shapes how they experience the world; recognizing their energy, sensitivity, and adaptability helps meet their needs.

In simple terms: Temperament affects child behavior.

Key Takeaway

Adapt parenting to temperament.

Themes

parenting temperament development

Mood

caring informative

Type

educational practical

When to use this quote

  • school settings
  • family routines
  • therapy sessions

Key Concepts

child psychology individual differences

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you identify a child’s temperament?
  • What strategies support highly active children?
A Different Perspective

Parents may misinterpret temperament as misbehavior.

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