The Development of Self-Control of Emotion: Intrinsic and Extrinsic Influences

In this paper, we review evidence that supports the notion that intrinsic and extrinsic factors contribute to the development of self-control of emotions. Intrinsic factors include the infant's temperament, and cognitive processes such as attention and inhibitory control. Extrinsic factors involve the caregiving environment, sibling and peer relationships, and cultural expectations regarding emotional displays. Integrative approaches to the study of the development of self-control of emotion will be most fruitful if investigations examine the interplay, over time, among these internal and external factors.