Parental Mental Health and Adjustment
This section highlights research focused on parental mental health, stress, and psychological adjustment during and after family separation. The studies examine how parental functioning can influence children’s emotional, behavioral, and developmental outcomes. This body of research is often considered alongside parenting involvement when evaluating family dynamics and child well-being.
The Consequences of Divorce for Adults and Children
Amato, P. R. (2000)
Journal of Marriage and Family
This review examines psychological adjustment in parents and children following divorce, with particular attention to stress, mental health, and family functioning. The paper synthesizes evidence showing how parental well-being and coping are associated with children’s emotional and behavioral outcomes during and after family transitions.
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Parental psychological adjustment following divorce is closely linked to children’s emotional and behavioral outcomes.
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Stress, depression, and ongoing conflict can affect parents’ ability to provide consistent and supportive care.
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Children’s adjustment is influenced not only by family structure, but by how parents function during periods of change.
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Supporting parental well-being is an important component of promoting child adjustment after divorce.
Parental Mental Health & Adjustment
Connell, A. M., & Goodman, S. H. (2002)
This meta-analysis examines associations between parental psychopathology and children’s emotional and behavioral outcomes, comparing effects related to mothers and fathers. The findings indicate that parental mental health difficulties are associated with child adjustment concerns across both internalizing and externalizing domains. The study emphasizes parental psychological functioning as a relevant factor for child well-being, regardless of parent gender.
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Parental mental health difficulties are associated with children’s emotional and behavioral adjustment across multiple domains.
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Associations between parental psychopathology and child outcomes are observed for both mothers and fathers.
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The study supports viewing parental mental health as a family functioning factor, rather than a parent-specific issue.
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Mental health considerations may be relevant when evaluating family dynamics and child well-being during periods of stress or transition.