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Relations between parenting and externalizing and internalizing problem behaviour in early adolescence: child
E Reitz1, M Deković, A M Meijer
1Department of Child and Adolescent Studies, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80140, 3508 TC, The Netherlands. e.reitz@fss.uu.nl
Journal of Adolescence
|September 20, 2005
Summary
Parenting significantly impacts adolescent externalizing behaviors, while adolescent behavior also influences parenting styles. These bidirectional effects highlight the complex interplay between parents and children during early adolescence.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Adolescent Psychology
- Family Studies
Background:
- Externalizing and internalizing problem behaviors are significant concerns in early adolescence.
- Understanding the dynamic interplay between parenting and adolescent behavior is crucial for intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the bidirectional relationships between parenting and problem behaviors (externalizing and internalizing) in early adolescence.
- To examine the moderating roles of child behavior on parenting effects and vice versa.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study design with 650 adolescents (13-14 years old).
- Data collected at two time points over one year using Youth Self-Report and parenting questionnaires.
- Statistical analyses examined reciprocal effects and moderating influences.
Main Results:
- Parenting significantly predicted increases in externalizing problem behaviors one year later.
- Adolescent problem behaviors predicted changes in parental involvement and autonomy granting.
- Relationships were stronger for externalizing than internalizing behaviors.
- Interactions between parental and child characteristics influenced outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Evidence supports a bidirectional model where parenting influences adolescent behavior and adolescent behavior shapes parenting.
- These findings underscore the importance of considering both directions of influence in understanding adolescent development.
- Interventions may benefit from addressing both parenting practices and adolescent behavior concurrently.