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Executive Function in Kindergarten and the Development of Behavior Competence: Moderating Role of Positive Parenting
Michelle M Cumming1, Daniel V Poling2, Irina Patwardhan3
1Florida International University.
Early Childhood Research Quarterly
|August 22, 2022
Summary
Strong working memory in kindergarten is linked to fewer behavior problems. Positive parenting, like cognitive stimulation and behavior management, can further support children with strong working memory.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Developmental Neuroscience
- Educational Psychology
Background:
- Executive functions, including working memory and cognitive flexibility, are crucial for early childhood development.
- Behavioral problems in kindergarten can impact academic and social outcomes.
- Positive parenting practices are recognized as key factors in child development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of executive functions (working memory, cognitive flexibility) in predicting externalizing and internalizing behaviors in kindergarten.
- To examine how positive parenting practices moderate the relationship between executive functions and behavior problems.
- To inform early identification and intervention strategies during the critical transition to elementary school.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study-Kindergarten Cohort (N=15,827).
- Employed regression analyses to assess the unique contributions of executive functions to behavior problems, controlling for covariates.
- Examined moderation effects of parenting practices (cognitive stimulation, warmth, behavior management).
Main Results:
- Working memory was significantly associated with lower externalizing and internalizing behavior problems.
- Cognitive stimulation moderated the link between working memory and externalizing problems.
- Behavior management moderated the link between working memory and internalizing problems.
- Cognitive flexibility showed no significant associations with behavior problems.
Conclusions:
- Working memory is a key protective factor for behavioral functioning in early elementary school.
- Targeted parenting interventions can enhance the benefits of strong executive functions.
- Findings support the integration of executive function support and positive parenting strategies in early education settings.
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