Observed parenting aspects of child compliance in custodial grandfamilies. Issue 2 (13th November 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Portner, Laura Collier; Kaminski, Patricia L.; Hayslip, Bert; Smith, Gregory C.; Litvin, Justin M.
• Is Part Of: Family relations. Volume 71:Issue 2(2022)
• Page Start: 783
• Page End: 803
• Publication Date: 2021-11-13
• Subjects: Families -- Periodicals; Family life education -- Periodicals; Family social work -- Periodicals; 306.85
• DOI: 10.1111/fare.12605
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0197-6664

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: This study explored differences between the observed parenting behaviors of custodial grandmothers (CGMs) with grandchildren varying in symptoms of hyperactivity–inattention (HI). Background: Little is known about the parenting practices of grandparent caregivers, and most extant studies are based on self‐report data rather than direct observations of grandparent–grandchild interactions. Method: Custodial grandmothers ( N = 170) completed ratings of grandchild HI and participated in a dyadic interaction task with their grandchild so that the relative positivity of their comments and type and number of their commands could be coded. We also coded grandchildren's behavioral responses to each of their CGM's commands. Results: Controlling for child age, there were no differences in parenting variables between high and low HI groups. Hierarchical regression analyses revealed that, controlling for child age, child HI did moderate the relationship between commands given by a grandmother and child compliance, where children lower in HI were more likely than children high in HI symptoms to comply in the face of high levels of commands. In general, however, CGMs were effective in eliciting child compliance. A second hierarchical regression model, also controlling for child age, suggested that for some children, grandmothers' encouragement and praise (vs. criticism and discouragement) was an effective method of gaining compliance without overrelying on commands. Conclusion: This study revealed complex relationships among positive and negative parenting practices, direct and indirect commands, and compliance. Such relationships transcend grandchild HI status but, in part, vary with grandchild age. Implications: This study provides unique insights into the childrearing practices of CGMs and has implications for interventions targeting grandparent caregivers' parenting skills.