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Temperament characteristics can be assessed using interviews, behavioral observations, and questionnaires. Some of the more common tests used are the Carey Temperament Scales, developed in 1968 by Dr. William B. Carey (a practicing pediatrician), that help parents, teachers, and professionals understand why children act certain ways, which actions are normal, and which may be the result of a condition or disorder. Many of these tests and other resources are available on the Internet. Visit these web sites to find out how you can assess your child’s temperament. The Carey Temperament Scales are available for children from 1 month old to 12 years old. The Preventive Ounce is a nonprofit, preventive mental health organization, started by two psychologists who were frustrated by long-standing behavioral problems in children. Most of these problems could have been prevented, had parents understood how to manage the issues that were normal for their child's temperament. Their web site is aimed at all parents, and it is an interactive site that includes information on temperament, as well as questionnaires that will help you assess and deal with your infant or toddler’s temperament: The Challenge of Difficult Children was created by Elaine Gibson, an elementary school teacher, counselor, columnist on parenting issues, and mother of two children, one diagnosed with ADD and a mood disorder, has created a web site with all sorts of helpful parenting information. While she focuses on how to handle needy or difficult children, she also has a listing of book recommendations and suggestions for summer and holiday activities, as well as ways to keep yourself healthy (and sane) as a parent. Recommended sites about ADD: The National Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA) strives to help people with ADD lead happier, more successful lives through education, research, and public advocacy. They have a web site that will answer many of your questions about ADD, its treatment, what it is like, and where to go for more information. They also have special sections devoted to teens with ADD, women with ADD, and more. ADDA Kids Area is a fun, interactive web site for kids with ADD. CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) provides useful information for people with ADD or parents of people with ADD. This web site can help you assess your child’s ADD symptoms and treatment, answer questions about your child’s behavior, and connect you to help that is available. |
