

#665: How Childhood Shapes Adulthood
Dec 2, 2020
In this discussion, guests Jay Belsky and Terrie Moffitt, both esteemed professors of human development and co-authors of The Origins of You, delve into how childhood experiences shape adult lives. They share fascinating insights from longitudinal studies on self-control and behavioral traits like aggressiveness and shyness. The conversation uncovers the lasting impact of childhood bullying, questions the assumptions stemming from the marshmallow experiment, and highlights the importance of early interventions in promoting positive outcomes.
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Temperament and Adulthood
- Shy children may marry later but have more stable marriages.
- Early aggressiveness, if consistent across situations and sustained over time, can lead to negative adult outcomes.
Changing Temperaments
- Early childhood temperament doesn't determine adult outcomes.
- Consistent support and discipline can help children modify problematic temperaments.
Intervention Timing
- Early interventions are most effective, but later interventions can still help.
- Addressing issues like ADHD early can prevent problems from snowballing.