Why Measuring Multiple Risk and Protective Factors is Important

In a recent longitudinal study, De Maat et al. (2021) examined whether aspects of child temperament and executive functions can buffer children from the adverse effects of early life stress. Parents reported stressors between birth and age 6, while executive functions were measured at age 4, temperament at age 5, and internalizing and externalizing problems (by teachers) at age 7. The positive relationship between early life stress and externalizing problems at age 7 was buffered by lower surgency while better executive functioning through shifting capacities made the relationship between early life stress and internalizing problems. The temperamental characteristic known as surgency is defined by high cheerfulness, responsiveness, spontaneity, and sociability. Shifting is one aspect of executive functioning that enables children to shift focus. The authors conclude, “Findings underscore the importance of examining multiple protective factors simultaneously.”

It makes sense to me that children with high surgency are more adversely affected by early life stress because it interferes with their natural inclinations to be “out there” in the middle of whatever is going on. It also makes sense that children who are better able to shift focus can protect themselves from internalizing problems by shifting focus away from distress to other aspects of their lives.

Although this is a single study and the authors acknowledge many of its limitations, it is another reminder of how important the intake questionnaire is. Gathering information about stressors, temperamental features, and both internalizing and internalizing behaviors is often essential in understanding the challenges the child brings to any diagnostic and treatment setting as well as the assets that may facilitate progress.

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