Structures of self-regulation in Japanese preschool children

This investigation was done to clarify the developmental characteristics and sex differences in self-regulation among Japanese preschool children. Subjects were 2038 children of age 4 to 6 years from kindergartens and nursery schools. There were 1016 boys and 1022 girls. A questionnaire of 43 items was completed with assistance of the children's fathers or mothers. Analysis showed there were significant differences in self-regulation and altruism between boys and girls and that scores on self-assertion were greater across the age groups.