The main goal of the proposed research is to assess the role of genetic and environmental influences on inhibitory control (IC) in early childhood. In the proposed investigation, 200 twin pairs will be assessed for IC and related behaviors at 2 years of age in a laboratory situation. Parent ratings of IC, behavior problems, and other temperament dimensions, observer ratings of IC and other temperament dimensions, and a measure of cognitive ability, will be obtained. Little is known about the development of IC and related behaviors. Most IC researchers posit that IC emerges at the age of two, however, relatively few have studied it at this important age for methodological reasons. IC's importance in the development of psychopathology, as well as in conjunction with other dimensions of temperament is also an important consideration. Further research can only serve to refine the etiology of IC, and how it contributes to the development of temperament, cognition, and psychopathology in childhood and across the lifespan. The exploration of genetic and environmental contributions, in addition to the possibility of discovering specific genes related to these behaviors, may help predict individuals or groups at risk for developmental difficulties.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Type
Predoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F31)
Project #
5F31MH076353-02
Application #
7134301
Study Section
Behavioral Genetics and Epidemiology Study Section (BGES)
Program Officer
Ferrell, Courtney
Project Start
2005-09-30
Project End
2007-02-28
Budget Start
2006-09-30
Budget End
2007-02-28
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2006
Total Cost
$14,929
Indirect Cost
Name
Boston University
Department
Psychology
Type
Schools of Arts and Sciences
DUNS #
049435266
City
Boston
State
MA
Country
United States
Zip Code
02215
Gagne, Jeffrey R; Saudino, Kimberly J (2016) The development of inhibitory control in early childhood: A twin study from 2-3 years. Dev Psychol 52:391-9
Gagne, Jeffrey R; Saudino, Kimberly J; Asherson, Philip (2011) The genetic etiology of inhibitory control and behavior problems at 24 months of age. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 52:1155-63
Gagne, Jeffrey R; Saudino, Kimberly J (2010) Wait for it! A twin study of inhibitory control in early childhood. Behav Genet 40:327-37