Research in adults indicates that high IS is linked to greater emotional arousal [38, 39],
less alexithymia [40], and, interestingly, also better downregulation of negative affect via cognitive reappraisal [41].
Showing difficulties in appreciating other people's emotions and being empathic, mothers with high levels of
alexithymia might appear
less responsive to their children's psychological needs, unconcerned and affectively
less involved in the relationship with them.