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Published on: September 19, 2019
Family cohesion and children's behavior problems: a longitudinal investigation
Victoria C Lucia1, Naomi Breslau
1Department of Epidemiology, Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine, East Lansing, 48824, USA. lucia@epi.msu.edu
Psychiatry Research
|January 21, 2006
Summary
High family cohesion positively impacts children's mental health, reducing internalizing and attention problems. This beneficial effect of strong family bonds is consistent over time, as reported by both mothers and teachers.
Area of Science:
- Child psychology
- Family studies
- Developmental psychology
Background:
- Childhood behavior problems are a significant concern.
- Family dynamics are known to influence child development.
- Previous research suggests links between family environment and child behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between family cohesion and conflict and childhood behavior problems.
- To determine if family cohesion has a lasting impact on children's mental health.
- To examine the relationship between family environment and internalizing and attention problems.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a stratified random sample of 823 children evaluated at ages 6 and 11.
- Mothers completed the Family Environment Scale at age 6.
- Children's behavior problems were assessed using the Child Behavior Checklist and Teacher Report Form by mothers and teachers at ages 6 and 11, respectively.
- Employed multiple regression analysis with generalized estimating equations.
Main Results:
- Family cohesion, as reported by mothers, demonstrated a significant beneficial effect on children's internalizing and attention problems.
- This positive influence of family cohesion was observed consistently across both mother and teacher ratings.
- The beneficial effects of family cohesion on behavior problems were stable over time, from age 6 to 11.
Conclusions:
- Family cohesion is a critical factor in children's mental health, specifically in mitigating internalizing and attention problems.
- A cohesive family environment provides a protective buffer against the development of certain childhood behavioral issues.
- The findings underscore the importance of fostering family cohesion for promoting positive child development and well-being.
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