Research
Research Highlights
Our laboratory has conducted extensive longitudinal research focusing on child temperament.
To date, this work can be broadly divided into two major research phases.
Phase 1: Longitudinal Study (1990–2008)
In 1990, we initiated a longitudinal study of 464 1-year-old children, focusing on behavioral inhibition and temperamental difficulties.
Our findings demonstrated that these temperament traits significantly influence maternal psychological states—such as separation anxiety and parenting stress—as well as parenting practices. Moreover, they play a crucial role in children’s socialization processes, including the development of self-regulation and cooperative behavior.
By incorporating insights from behavioral genetics and neuroscience, our research has contributed to a deeper understanding of the biological foundations of temperament and the mechanisms underlying its stability and change.
Phase 2A: Ongoing Longitudinal Survey (since 2011)
Since 2011, we have been conducting an ongoing longitudinal study of first-born children born in 2010 and residing in Nagoya City. Data collection includes annual questionnaire surveys and biennial observational assessments.
Phase 2B: Nationwide Web-Based Survey (since 2015)
Since 2015, we have expanded our research through a nationwide web-based survey targeting first-born children from the same 2010 birth cohort across Japan.