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Evaluation of Alternative Models Explaining Parent-Child Similarity in Negative Emotionality: A Longitudinal Adoption
Lilia G Geel1,2, Emma R Skoler1,2, Robin P Corley1
1Institute for Behavioral Genetics, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA.
Child Development
|July 25, 2025
Summary
Gene-environment correlations, not just parenting, influence parent-child similarity in negative emotionality. Passive gene-environment correlation (rGE) plays a role, and negative parenting partially mediates this link.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Genetics
- Developmental Psychology
- Family Studies
Background:
- Parent-child similarity in negative emotionality is well-documented.
- The underlying mechanisms, including genetic and environmental factors, require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the role of gene-environment correlations (rGE) in parent-child similarity of negative emotionality.
- To determine if negative or warm parenting mediates this association.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the Colorado Adoption Project (N=843 children, 493 families).
- Assessed parent and child negative emotionality and parenting styles (negative and warm).
- Analyzed associations considering passive and evocative gene-environment correlations.
Main Results:
- Passive gene-environment correlation (rGE) was found to contribute to parent-child similarity in negative emotionality.
- Negative parenting partially mediated the link between mothers' and children's negative emotionality.
- Evocative gene-environment correlation (rGE) was not supported by the findings.
Conclusions:
- Gene-environment correlations offer a significant explanation for parent-child similarity in negative emotionality.
- Environmental mediation through parenting styles should be considered alongside genetic influences.
- Future research should explore multiple pathways, including rGE, to understand developmental similarities.
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