Effects of Feeding Method on Infant Temperament

This chapter identifies the earliest manifestations of behavioral style in human infants. It outlines the procedures that are employed to assess temperament and argues for the importance of certain dimensions relevant to later development. The criteria for importance are based on three considerations. First is the objective measurability of the dimensions, through the convergence of descriptions, assessments, and observations as appropriate. Second is the distinctiveness of the dimensions, that each involves a more or less independent aspect of temperament. Finally, the stability of the dimensions is of concern, that despite developmental change the components have a traceable link to later temperament, behavior, or other meaningful outcome. The chapter focuses on the relationship between early nutrition and temperament and analyzes the issue of early feeding regimen and its impact on the expression of temperament.