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Parental caregiving and child externalizing behavior in nonclinical samples: a meta-analysis
1Department of Child Study, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155.
Psychological Bulletin
|July 1, 1994
Summary
Parental caregiving is linked to child externalizing behavior, with stronger associations found using observational or interview methods and for older children, boys, and mothers. This meta-analysis clarifies inconsistencies in research findings.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Child Psychiatry
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Inconsistent findings exist regarding the association between parental caregiving and child externalizing behavior.
- Understanding these associations is crucial for developing effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and synthesize existing research on the concurrent association between parental caregiving and child externalizing behavior.
- To identify factors that may explain inconsistencies in previous study findings.
Main Methods:
- A meta-analysis was conducted on 47 studies examining the parent-child relationship.
- Data were analyzed to assess the strength of association based on measurement methods, behavioral patterns, child age, and parent gender.
Main Results:
- Associations were stronger when caregiving was measured via observations/interviews versus questionnaires.
- Combined parent behaviors (patterns) showed stronger links than single behaviors.
- Associations were stronger for older children, mothers, and boys, particularly in mother-son preadolescent dyads.
Conclusions:
- The findings help reconcile inconsistencies in the literature on parental caregiving and externalizing behavior.
- Results support theories emphasizing the reciprocal nature of parent-child interactions.
- Methodological choices in measuring parental caregiving significantly impact observed associations.