Examining How Perceptions of Family Cohesion and Organization Effect Children's Psychological Functioning

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to look at (1) Are parent-child reports of organization and cohesion in family environment associated with parent-child reports of psychological functioning of child? (2) Are lower levels of parent-child agreement about the family environment associated with worse psychological functioning? We hypothesized that higher levels of cohesion and organization in family would be associated with lower levels of total psychological problems. We hypothesized that lower levels of agreement between parent and child reports on family environment would be associated with worse psychological functioning of child. Methods: The study sample included 101 low income, ethnically diverse (59% Black, 43% Hispanic, 15% White, 58% Female, 42% male) youth between the ages 10-12. Youth and a guardian completed interviews and measures on family environment and psychological wellbeing. Results: The results support the hypothesis that higher levels of cohesion and organization are associated with lower levels of total problems. The results supported the hypothesis that lower levels of agreement are associated with worse psychological functioning. Discussion: Overall, the findings support that family environment is important to children's psychological well-being and provide implications for future directions.

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Evans