Examining early inhibitory control and emotion regulation as predictors of childhood internalizing and externalizing problems: A longitudinal study

Abstract

Background: Identifying predictors and mechanisms in the development of childhood internalizing (INT) and externalizing (EXT) problems is crucial for early intervention. Inhibitory control has been linked to INT and EXT, with emotion regulation (ER) potentially mediating these associations. However, specific pathways between early inhibitory control, ER, and later INT and EXT remain unclear. Additionally, regulation of distinct emotions (anger, fear, sadness, joy) may play a role. Methods: The sample included 94 typically developing children from the EFFECT study, a longitudinal project on the development of self-regulation. At age 4, inhibitory control was measured using the Day/Night Stroop Task. At age 6, general ER, as well as regulation of specific emotions (anger, fear, sadness, and joy), were assessed using the Emotion Questionnaire (parent-report). INT and EXT at ages 9–10 were measured using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (parent-report). Correlational and path analyses were conducted. Results: No longitudinal associations were found between inhibitory control at 4 years and either INT or EXT at ages 9–10, or with ER at age 6. Consequently, we found no evidence of mediation by ER. General ER at 6 years emerged as a predictor of both INT and EXT at 9–10 years. While not statistically significant, effect sizes linking regulation of some specific emotions (anger, fear) with subsequent INT and EXT problems warrant further research. Conclusion: The results reflect the complexity of studying longitudinal effects of early inhibitory control. A modest sample size with attrition, and measurement constraints may have attenuated effects and limited generalizability. Meanwhile, our findings highlight ER as a target for intervention across both INT and EXT.