Callous-unemotional traits: Behavioral problems und prosocial behavior in kindergarten children

In emotional development, callous-unemotional traits (CU-traits) which belong to the core traits of psychopathology, identify deviations such as lack of empathy or a superficial affect. This study examines whether these affective traits can be identified in children of kindergarten age and whether there is a association with behavior problems, especially with externalizing behavior problems. A sample of 311 children (average age: 5.0 years) was examined by the "Antisocial Process Screening Device" (ASPD) to assess the number of children with callous-unemotional traits (CU-traits). Longitudinal und cross-sectional connections between CU-traits and behavior problems (SDQ) are presented. 23.3% of children show increased values on the scale CU-traits. Younger children achieve higher values thus normative developmental influences can be suggested. A clear correlation between CU-traits and behavior problems as well as negative correlations with prosocial behavior can be found. The longitudinal analysis (duration one year) revealed that CU-traits can be considered as a predictor for behavior problems. A specific connection between aggressive behavior and CU-traits cannot be presented. However, CU-traits are associated with a deficit in prosocial behavior. The issue whether CU-traits of young children are suitable to identify aggressive children at an early stage is discussed.