(analytical): the objective of the present article is to describe and compare empirical literature that investigates the relation between attachment and self-regulation in childhood. The analysis demonstrates that the methodological design and measurement technique used to evaluate both attachment and self-regulation have a significant affect on the results obtained. The time lapse between measurements affects results in longitudinal studies of behavioral self-regulation, and the method used to evaluate attachment affects the results in studies of emotional self-regulation. Despite the fact that the research analyzed is consistent in describing a relationship between attachment patterns and the use of certain emotional regulation strategies, there is no consistency in research on the relationship between attachment and emotionality. This literature review provides a warning on how methodological designs affect research results and suggests incorporating an holistic conception of self-regulation in future research. Key words: self-regulation, attachment, child development, methodology (Isoc Psychology Thesaurus).