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Association between maladaptive parenting and child self-control over time: cross-lagged study using a monozygotic
Charlotte A M Cecil1, Edward D Barker, Sara R Jaffee
1Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London, London, UK.
Summary
Parenting and child self-control influence each other over time. Early interventions targeting both parents and children can improve developmental outcomes and reduce behavioral issues.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Behavioral Genetics
Background:
- Harsh parenting and negative parental emotions are potential environmental risks for low child self-control.
- Children's behavior can also elicit specific parenting responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the longitudinal interplay between parenting and self-control.
- To investigate associated outcomes using the monozygotic (MZ) twin differences model.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal analysis of monozygotic (MZ) twin differences.
- Community sample of 5184 twins, with data collected at ages 3, 4, 7, and 9 years.
- Outcomes assessed at age 12 years.
Main Results:
- Non-shared environmental factors in parenting impact self-control development.
- Child self-control demonstrated an evocative effect on parenting.
- Harsh parenting predicted conduct problems in both genders; self-control at age 9 predicted conduct and emotional issues at age 12.
Conclusions:
- Parenting and child self-control exhibit a reciprocal, longitudinal relationship.
- Early interventions simultaneously addressing parents and children show promise.
- Understanding this bidirectional influence is key for promoting healthy child development.
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