Parent and Child Perceptions of Parenting Practices: Do Differences Matter for Child Outcomes?

Abstract

The aim of the current study was to examine whether differences in perceptions of parenting have an effect on child outcomes. Data were taken from an Early Risers study, which incorporated the Early Risers evidence-based competence enhancement program, offering skills training and support to children with adjustment problems and parents. The sample of 110 consisted of well-adjusted children and children with adjustment problems. Parenting practices were measured by child and parent reports, and child outcomes were reported by the child’s teacher. Child and parent reports did not correspond, and results indicated the parent report of spanking predicted child’s aggression. Results also found that differences in reports of spanking predicted aggression, and differences in reports of yelling predicted decreases in the child’s attention and concentration. The current study’s findings suggest the importance of parent education on alternative forms of discipline.