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Abstract
Conceptualizing development as a complex system of interactions allows researchers to measure the unique contribution of physiological and behavioral factors to a variable of interest across levels of analysis. Past research suggests that positive respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) and interpersonal movement synchrony (IMS) are associated with higher levels of emotion regulation and task performance in mother-child dyads. However, the unique contribution of each measure of synchrony is currently understudied. This study explores the relationships between IMS, RSA synchrony, and performance on a puzzle task as a preliminary investigation into the systemic interactions between physiology, behavior, and problem-solving. The sample included 39 biological mothers (Mage = 35.13, SD = 7.11) and their children (Mage = 6.10, SD = 0.79). Results found no evidence of either IMS or RSA synchrony, suggesting that neither explains significant variability of task performance. This research contributes to understanding the development of problem-solving and spatial awareness through mother-child interactions.