Parenting skills and perceived stress in parents of children aged 3 to 5 years

Abstract

Perceived stress is described as a risk factor in parenting practices and, consequently, in child development trajectories. In this context, the present study analyzes the relationship between parenting skills and perceived stress in parents of children aged three to five years. A quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional design with a descriptive and correlational scope was used. The Positive Parenting Scale (E2P) and the Parenting Stress Index/Short Form (PSI-SF) were administered to a sample of 100 parents of preschool children. The results reported low frequencies of bonding, formative, protective, and reflective parenting practices, with 49% of participants falling within the risk zone. In addition, high and low levels of stress were determined, considered risk factors in childcare. A significant, negative, and moderate relationship was identified between parenting skills and perceived stress, with an explanation of variance of 22%. Therefore, it is concluded that greater parenting skills are associated with lower levels of parental distress, difficulties in interaction, and regulation of children's behavior.