Continuities in the structural expression of affectivity: a developmental comparison

Developmental trends in children's verbalization of affective distress is examined using the Structured Pediatric Psychosocial Interview. Scale scores for two independent samples of younger (7-10 yrs) and older (11-14 yrs) public school children were factor analyzed. Results show high degree of congruency between the two developmental groups in their verbalization of affectivity. Factors associated with effective hostility (Resentment and Detachment) and with goal-directed investment (Emulation and Apathy) show marked continuity across developmental stages. However, a factor related to description of internal arousal (Tension, Restlessness, Sensitivity) showed increased complexity with age.