Links Between Coparenting Alliance and Parenting Styles of French Mothers and Fathers

Abstract

Parenting style (PS) and coparenting alliance (CA) are central concepts in the literature on family socialization and are frequently cited as family variables that explains interindividual differences in the development of learning during childhood. However, there has been limited research examining the relationship between these two concepts. Furthermore, the absence of suitable measurement tools complicates the conduct of comparative studies in France with those conducted elsewhere globally. Thus, the first objective of the present study is to adapt and validate the Parenting Styles and Dimensions Questionnaire (PSDQ). The second objective is to examine the links between the PS and the CA among mothers and fathers. The study involved a sample of 169 couples with children in fourth- or fifth grade. Both mothers and fathers completed the PSDQ and Parenting Alliance Inventory. Results show that the French version of the PSDQ demonstrates satisfactory psychometric qualities. Structural validity of the questionnaire was assessed using confirmatory factor analysis. Similarly, links between CA and PS have been identified. Specifically, mothers and fathers who reported higher levels of CA also tended to exhibit higher scores in the authoritative style. The relationships between PS and CA provide a better understanding of family functioning. The French version of the PSDQ is therefore suitable for use in both psychology research and clinical practice.

Keywords

parenting style PSDQ coparenting alliance dimensional/typological approach

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