Parenting Styles and Behavioral Problems among Preschoolers in Thailand
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Abstract
Background/problem: Children exposed to domestic violence face a higher risk of behavioral problems, which can lead to a diversity of problems into adulthood. The discipline methods used by families, known as parenting styles, particularly harsh discipline, potentially contribute to child abuse and negatively influence emotional development.
Objective/purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships between parenting styles, child abuse, and behavioral problems in preschoolers in Thailand.
Design and Methodology: Data from 5,345 children aged 3 to 4 years was analyzed using the Thailand multiple indicator cluster survey 2019 (MICS6/2019). Multiple probit regression was used to predict behavioral problems based on each parenting style and socio-environmental factors.
Results: The findings indicated that inattention was the most prevalent behavior issue (40.2%). Authoritarian, hybrid, and neglectful parenting styles were identified as forms of child maltreatment that significantly impact aggressive behavior, with neglectful parenting showing a strong association with aggressive behavior (boys: AVE = 0.18, p < .01; girls: AVE = 0.16, p < .01). No significant association was found between parenting styles and children's inability to get along. Permissive parenting was not significantly associated with behavior problems compared to authoritative parenting. Other factors, including gender, screen time, location, income, and single-parent family structure, were significantly associated with behavioral issues.
Conclusion and Implications: The study clarifies the significant impact of parenting styles on child behavior, particularly child abuse and heightened aggression. These findings hold substantial implications for caregivers and preschool instructors, emphasizing adopting nonviolent parenting and considering socio-environmental factors to effectively manage behavioral issues and promote child well-being.
Originality/Value for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): This study's findings highlight the need for social policies and strategies for guiding families and educators regarding child rearing and parenting styles for shaping child behaviors and contribute to achieving SDG-5, the sustainable goal that seeks to create a world where women and girls have equal rights, especially for SDG-5.2 that seeks to eliminate all forms of violence against children and girls.
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