Children with highly reactive temperaments often display higher levels of _______ in adulthood.

Children with highly reactive temperaments tend to have an increased sensitivity to their environments, which can lead to heightened emotional responses. As they mature into adulthood, this heightened sensitivity often manifests as higher levels of introversion and neuroticism. Introversion may arise as these individuals prefer to withdraw from overstimulating environments where their heightened reactivity can feel overwhelming. Neuroticism encompasses a range of emotional instability and anxiety, traits that can be amplified in those who are highly reactive; they may experience emotions more intensely and have a tendency to worry.

The traits associated with extroversion and agreeableness are generally characterized by a sociable and harmonious disposition, which contrasts with the tendencies of highly reactive individuals. Similarly, conscientiousness relates to a person's ability to be organized and dependable, and while openness involves being receptive to new experiences, it does not directly correlate with the heightened reactivity seen in children. Therefore, the relationship between a child's reactive temperament and adult personality traits establishes a clear connection with introversion and neuroticism.