Is er een verband tussen een overbeschermende opvoedingsstijl bij de ouder en de externaliserende problemen bij het jonge kind, en is dit verband anders voor jongens dan voor meisjes?

Abstract

Given that externalizing problems in children have different negative consequences, it is relevant to see which factors are related to these externalizing problems. In this way, it is possible to anticipate these factors in the future, with the aim of reducing the externalizing problems and their negative consequences. The current study examined the relationship between overprotective parenting and externalizing problems of the child. The current study also examined wether this relationship differs for boys or girls. Overprotective parenting and externalizing problems of the child were assessed in a non-clinical sample (n = 705) by parent reports. Participants consisted of parents of children between the ages of 3.5 and 7 years old (M = 4.01, 51% boys, 49% girls). The overprotective parenting style is measured with the Parental Overprotection Measure (POM). The externalizing problems of the child were measured with the Strenght and Difficulties Questionaire (SDQ). The results revealed no significant correlations between overprotective parenting and externalizing problems of the child. The results also revealed that this relationship did not differ for boys or girls. Based on the current results, it is expected that it is not sensible to influence the parenting style of parents with the aim of reducing the externalizing problems and their negative consequences. However, these results should be interpreted with caution.