:: Current research project

Emotional regulation, temperament, attachment and Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal activity in mother-infant dyads

This research studies emotional regulation strategies and the integration of internal factors (Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis and temperament), and external ones, (quality of the attachment relationship), during challenging situations of fear, anger and positive affect in children between 18 and 24 months. Emotional regulation and levels of stress during situations of fear and anger are influenced by the child’s expectations of the parent’s availability. These ones are developed through the interaction between the child’s temperament and the quality of his/her attachment relationship. The intensity of the HPA axis’ answers is mediated trough emotions, namely, the feeling of control over threatening events. The importance of emotional regulation in the development of social-competence, cognitive performance and psychopathology in children and adult life, ensures the pertinence of this project.

Funded by: FCT - SFRH/BD/23365/2005