The Baby and Toddler Behavior Questionnaires: Empirical studies and conceptual considerations

The article discusses the conceptual basis of two parental questionnaires, each measuring six dimensions of infant behavior differences and developed on large representative samples of Swedish infants, aged 3 to 10 months ( N=791 ) and 11 to 15 months ( N =357). Empirical validation data are presented and discussed as well as evidence for a constitutional basis for some dimensions. A second order variable identified in the older age group is suggested to be related to the construct of difficult temperatment. Finally, suggestions for use of the two questionnaires are put forward.