The roles of temperamental dispositions and perceived parenting behaviours in the use of two emotion regulation strategies in late childhood

In recent years, emotion regulation has re-emerged in the literature as a fundamental component of psychological functioning. The present study investigated the independent and interactive roles of temperamental dispositions and perceptions of parenting behaviors in the use of emotion regulation (ER) strategies in late childhood. A sample of 293 children (grades 4–6) completed measures of ER, temperament, and parenting behaviors. As hypothesized, higher scores on temperament-based Approach and perceived parental Care were associated with greater use of the ER strategy of Reappraisal, whereas lower levels of temperament-based Flexibility, Positive Mood Quality and perceived parental Care were associated with greater use of the ER strategy of Suppression. Results suggest that despite differing temperamental dispositions, the presence of a nurturing and supportive caregiving environment is important for the development of adaptive patterns of ER.