Clarifying the Connection Between Parental and Child Stress: The Role of Coping Strategies and Parenting Behavior

Abstract

Background/Objectives. The association between child stress and parental stress has been well studied; however, the factors modifying this relationship have not been sufficiently examined. The current study investigates the roles of coping and parenting behavior in the relationship between parental and child stress based on a conceptual framework that unites different parental characteristics in explaining child stress. Methods. The study involved 271 mothers of preschoolers, who completed the following questionnaires: the Perceived Stress Scale, the Perceived Stress Scale for Children, the Alabama Parenting Questionnaire, and the Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced Questionnaire. Results. Parental stress is related positively to avoidant coping and negatively to positive reframing coping strategies. Different coping strategies, in turn, have significant associations with parenting behavior. Positive reframing relates negatively to punishment and inconsistent discipline, while avoidance has positive associations with ineffective parenting strategies, which in turn are linked with higher child stress. Punishment and inconsistent discipline coupled together are significantly and positively related to child stress. Conclusions. The current study clarified the association between parental and child stress, exploring the role of coping and parenting behavior. Positive reframing was associated with more favorable parenting and child-stress outcomes, while avoidant coping and dysfunctional parenting behavior were related to higher child stress. The findings demonstrate the importance of targeted interventions that can help mitigate the negative effects of stress on children and improve overall family well-being.