A behavioral checklist to measure dependence and independence.

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Developmental Psychology

Background:

• Childhood dependence and independence behaviors persist into adulthood.
• Theoretical frameworks by Clough, Wittig, and Derdiarian (1973) inform the study.
• Beller's (1955) components define childhood dependence and independence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify adult behaviors corresponding to childhood dependence and independence.
• To develop an observational tool for measuring these adult behaviors.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a theoretical framework and existing evidence on behavioral continuity.
• Constructed the Behavioral Checklist based on Beller's components and behavioral examples.
• The checklist is an observational tool.

Main Results:

• Identified adult behaviors aligning with Beller's (1955) components of dependence and independence.
• Developed the Behavioral Checklist as a measurement tool.
• The checklist demonstrates potential for measuring changes in adult dependence and independence.

Conclusions:

• Adult behaviors can be categorized based on childhood dependence and independence constructs.
• The Behavioral Checklist is a viable tool for assessing adult dependence and independence behaviors.