Children with cautious and shy temperaments are often shy and slow to warm-up. They are low in approach, which means their first reaction is to withdraw from new or stressful situations. They also demonstrate high negative reactivity and will let you know when they are not pleased with a situation.
Coretta
Carlos
Coretta the Cautious
Oh, hello. I’m Coretta. It takes me a little while before I feel comfortable meeting people or trying new things. But I do have a best friend at school and I really like her. Some of the other kids just think that I’m shy. Well, I guess, I am—at least a little bit.
More about Coretta
Coretta’s temperament is cautious and slow to warm. She is low in approach which means she has a tendency to withdraw in new situations or with new people. Coretta is also high in negative reactivity and lets you know when she is not pleased by changes or stressful situations.
With time and support, Coretta’s comfort levels will increase and she will respond more pleasantly.
Carlos the Cautious
Oh, hello. I’m Carlos. I like to ease into things. It takes me a little while before I feel comfortable meeting people or trying new things. I’d rather watch what’s going on for a while before I join in. My dad says I should be more aggressive. My mom says I’m cautious because I’m sensitive. That’s a good thing, right?
More about Carlos
Carlos’ temperament is cautious and slow to warm. He is high in withdrawal which means he has a tendency to withdraw in new situations or with new people.
With time and the appropriate amount of support, Carlos will feel more comfortable and respond with greater ease.
High-Maintenance
Children whose temperaments are high-maintenance are emotionally reactive, which means they usually react strongly and negatively to stress or change. They often seem moody. They are low in task persistence and have difficulty finishing tasks. They also demonstrate high levels of movement and wiggle frequently.
Industrious
Industrious children demonstrate both high task persistence and low motor activity, which enables them to get things done. They take pleasure in their accomplishments. They are also low in negative reactivity, which means they are pleasant most of the time.
Shy & Cautious
Children with cautious and shy temperaments are often shy and slow to warm up. They are low in approach, which means their first reaction is to withdraw from new or stressful situations. They also demonstrate high negative reactivity and will let you know when they are not pleased with a situation.
Social & Eager to Try
Social children are eager to meet new people. They are high in approach, often driven by a need to be with people and to try new experiences. Their temperaments are low in negative reactivity and withdrawal, which means they are usually pleasant most of the time.