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Updated: Jun 22, 2026
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Psychophysiological Assessment of the Effectiveness of Emotion Regulation Strategies in Childhood
Published on: February 11, 2017
Harsh parenting and child externalizing behavior: skin conductance level reactivity as a moderator
Stephen A Erath1, Mona El-Sheikh, E Mark Cummings
1Department of Human Development & Family Studies, 203 Spidle Hall, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA. sae0001@auburn.edu
Child Development
|May 27, 2009
Summary
Harsh parenting is linked to more externalizing behaviors in children with lower skin conductance level reactivity (SCLR). This finding suggests SCLR may influence how children respond to harsh parenting.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Developmental Neuroscience
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Harsh parenting is a known risk factor for child externalizing behaviors.
- Individual differences in physiological responses may moderate this association.
- Skin conductance level reactivity (SCLR) reflects autonomic nervous system arousal.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate SCLR as a moderator between harsh parenting and child externalizing behavior.
- To examine potential sex differences in the moderating role of SCLR.
Main Methods:
- 251 children (8-9 years) and their parents participated.
- Parent and child reports assessed harsh parenting and externalizing behavior.
- SCLR measured during socioemotional and problem-solving tasks.
Main Results:
- The link between harsh parenting and externalizing behavior was stronger in children with lower SCLR.
- Lower SCLR amplified the negative impact of harsh parenting on behavior.
- SCLR's moderating effect appeared stronger in boys than girls.
Conclusions:
- SCLR is a significant moderator of the harsh parenting-externalizing behavior link.
- Children with lower physiological arousal may be more vulnerable to harsh parenting.
- Findings contribute to understanding antisocial behavior development and child development models.
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