Parental practices of mothers and fathers and problem behaviour in preschool children: Differences and similarities
This study compares the parental practices of mothers and fathers of a group of preschool children exhibiting problem behaviour with those of parents of a group of children who do not exhibit such behaviour. Results obtained through self-reported and observational measurements reveal differences in the parental practices of both parents, for all groups. On average, mothers made themselves more available to their children than did fathers. Results also show differences between the parents of the two groups: parents of children with behaviour problems were less involved, used hostile practices more frequently, reported more rejection at an affective level and felt less effective than parents whose children did not present problem behaviour. In addition, contrary to the mother, the father was able to establish, in the context of play, a positive climate of interaction and cooperation with the child, even in the presence of problem behaviour. The results are discussed on the basis of their potential impact on future interventions.