Examining the Influence of Children's Temperament, Externalising and Internalising Problems on Crime Disclosure

Although a notable body of research has shed light on cognitive factors influencing children's tendency to conceal the truth, little is known about children's socioemotional characteristics that predict likelihood to disclose a crime. The present study examines the influence of temperament and social-emotional behaviours (internalising, externalising) on children's decision to conceal the truth. After witnessing an individual steal money from a stranger's wallet, children (N = 209) were asked to keep it a secret when interviewed. Temperament, as measured by the Revised Dimensions of Temperament Survey, and social-emotional behaviours, as measured by the parental Behavior Assessment System for Children-Second Edition, were assessed in relation to tendency to conceal an adult's transgression among 7-13-year-old children. Results showed that children with higher scores on mood quality (temperament) were more likely to conceal the truth (not disclose the theft), as were children who were high in externalising behaviours. In contrast, no significant differences were observed among children with high or low scores on internalising behaviours. Implications for predictors of childhood deception are discussed.