Is trait anger temperament associated to internalizing symptomatology? Study in a clinical sample of 8 to 10-year-old

Trait anger temperament can predict the onset of internalizing symptoms. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between anger temperament and the onset of anxiety and depressive symptoms in clinical school age children. Participants were 80 children with high scores in anxiety, aged 8 to 10 years old, recruited from two infant and adolescent mental health centers in Catalonia. Results showed that anger temperament is not associated with anxiety symptoms, but it is significantly associated with depressive symptoms. The study shows a different association between this temperament trait and the types of symptomatology of both internalizing disorders at these ages. Diagnostic parameters and assessments, as well as the prevention strategies used, need to take this into account.