The effect of parenting behaviors on subsequent child behavior problems in Autistic Spectrum Conditions

The current research explored the relationship between parenting behaviors in parents of children with Autistic Spectrum Conditions (ASC) and subsequent child behavior problems. The sample consisted of 72 children (aged 5–16 years) and their parents, who were assessed over a period of 9–10 months. There was a relationship between parenting behaviors and subsequent child behavior problems, but only for the parenting behavior of limit setting. The better the limit setting of the parents at baseline, the fewer child behavior problems were noted at follow-up. Finally, the parenting behavior of limit setting was found to mediate the relationship between parenting stress and subsequent child behavior problems.