Date of Award

1989

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Psychology

Abstract

This study examined psychological processes which distinguish three specific parent/family populations: abusive, distressed, and functional. Variables were examined in the following areas: parent and child cognitions and attributions, parent and teacher perceptions of child behavior, child perceptions of parent behavior, and family problem-solving, interactions, and environment. A continuum of family functioning was predicted with functional families being the most healthy, distressed families next, and abusive families being the most dysfunctional. The sample consisted of 48 poor single parent, mother-headed families (15 abusive, 16 distressed, and 17 functional) with a child between the ages of six and eleven. Families and teachers completed instruments to assess child behavior, parent behavior, and family environment. Problem-solving interactions between mother and child were video-taped and rated by judges. The following intruments were used: Family Problem-Solving Behavior Coding System, Problem-Solving Efficiency Scale, Beavers-Timberlawn Family Evaluation Scale, Family Environment Scale, Thought Listing, Attribution Listing, Child Behavior Checklist, Teacher Report Form, Daily Behavior Checklist, Parent Daily Report, and Parent Perception Inventory. Findings revealed that mothers in all three groups had very negative cognitions and attributions regarding their children. Of the three groups, abused children had the most negative cognitions and attributions regarding mother behavior. This may reflect an adaptive coping process on the part of the child. Parents and teachers perceived children in the functional groups as presenting less general behavioral problems and aggression than children in the other two groups. Analyses suggested that both parent and teacher observations should be used in diagnosing and treating children. No differences among the groups were found for how children perceived their mothers' behavior. Finally, problem-solving interactions and family environment were consistent with the predicted continuum of family functioning, but distressed and abusive families had similarly dysfunctional overall family interactions.

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