Dyadic synchrony: Its structure and function in children's development

In this reviews we examine empirical and theoretical work in three eras-infancy, toddlerhood, and early childhood-and for each era describe the structure of dyadic synchrony in interactions involving children and their caregivers, as well as offer speculation about its developmental function for the child, We review divergent literatures dealing with synchrony-related constructs which, together. suggest that although the structure and function of synchrony change throughout the course of early development, the ability to achieve synchrony may represent a crucial developmental achievement for significant dyadic relationships. one that facilitates social. emotional, and cognitive growth for the child. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.