A qualitative analysis of autonomy‐supportive parenting in families experiencing homelessness

Abstract

Objective: This exploratory qualitative study examined whether parents of young children residing in emergency housing endorse autonomy-supportive parenting values. Background: Young children experiencing homelessness are at increased risk for self-regulation difficulties, but one possible way to support self-regulation development during a window of plasticity in the preschool period is through autonomy-supportive parenting. Autonomy support has been shown to uniquely predict early self-regulation skills. However, there is also evidence to suggest that autonomy support could be problematic in risky environments. Method: Twenty-one parents of 3-to 6-year-old children participated in a brief interview about parenting and selfregulation development. Guided by self-determination theory, the interviews were subsequently coded for themes related to autonomy support. Results: Parents endorsed ideas consistent with autonomy support, such as recognizing children's capabilities and listening to children's ideas. However, parents also viewed some behaviors, such as offering young children choices, to be less acceptable. Conclusion: Findings suggest that parents experiencing homelessness may provide autonomy support in different ways than parents in more stable living conditions or from higher socioeconomic backgrounds. Implications: Parenting interventions that aim to promote early self-regulation development through autonomysupportive practices might consider tailoring intervention components to align with the socialization priorities of families experiencing homelessness.

Parental Control and College Students’ Adversarial Growth: A Discussion on Chinese One-Child Families

“…Especially when children are faced with adversity, there are significant differences in individuals’ immediate reactions and coping styles. Multiple studies have verified that positive parenting styles such as authoritative and empowering parenting can help children cope with adversity calmly, maintain a good mental state and psychological level, and gain opportunities for growth from adversity [ 2 , 3 ]. However, the role of controlling parenting has always been controversial.…”