Date of Award
2024
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Human Development and Family Science
Specialization
Developmental Science
Department
Human Development and Family Science
First Advisor
Casey McGregor
Second Advisor
Hans Saint-Eloi Cadely
Abstract
This study explored the influence of child-centered parenting attitudes on children’s prosocial behavior. Furthermore, the role of supporting positive behaviors, a positive parenting strategy, was investigated as a possible explanation of the link in the hypothesized association. Specifically, the current study examined the following questions: (1) To what extent are child-centered mothering attitudes associated with prosocial behavior? (2) Does supporting children’s positive behaviors explain this association? The research utilized secondary, cross-sectional data capturing the parenting attitudes and maternal reports of child behavior from 255 mothers of children ages 3-5 years old. Analyses were performed using the bootstrap method to examine the direct and indirect association between child-centered attitudes, supporting positive behaviors, and prosocial behavior. Results indicated a non-significant direct association between child-centered parenting attitudes and children’s prosocial behavior, in addition to a non-significant indirect association that works through supporting positive behaviors. However, there was a significant association found between parents’ support of positive behaviors and their participation in prosocial behavior. Interpretations of findings, suggestions for future research and practice are discussed.
Recommended Citation
LaCroix, Rachel Paige, "TESTING THE ROLE OF SUPPORTING POSITIVE BEHAVIORS BETWEEN CHILD-CENTERED PARENTING AND PROSOCIALITY" (2024). Open Access Master's Theses. Paper 2468.
https://digitalcommons.uri.edu/theses/2468