Results of two studies of childrens responses to well-child checkups are described The first study of 48 children showed an age-related decline in negative emotion and developmental differences in specific categories of coping behavior used before during, and after the examination The second study related differences in 48 children's reactions to the doctors warmth and involvement These results suggest that active even negative behavior may be developmentally appropriate and more adaptive than "good' passivity Techniques are suggested for making the young child a more active participant in the health care process.