영아기 자녀를 둔 어머니의 아동기 애착 및 아버지의 양육참여와 어머니의 양육효능감이 양육행동에 미치는 영향

Objectives: The main purpose of this study was to examine direct effects of maternal childhood attachment and paternal involvement on parenting behavior, and indirect effects through maternal parenting efficacy. Methods: A total of 310 participants, mothers of 6- to 15-month-old infants, responded to questionnaires, which included items related to maternal childhood attachment, paternal involvement, maternal parenting efficacy, and parenting behavior. Data were analyzed by using structural equation modeling (SEM). Results: The major findings of the study were summarized as follows: First, maternal childhood attachment and paternal involvement had direct effects on maternal parenting behavior. Second, maternal childhood attachment and paternal involvement had indirect effects on parenting behavior through maternal parenting efficacy. Conclusions: This study reveals the importance of maternal childhood attachment and paternal involvement, and maternal parenting efficacy in increasing maternal sensitivity and positive parenting behaviors. It emphasizes the relative effects of maternal parenting efficacy on parenting behavior. The results of this study offer the foundation in designing parenting education programs for parents with infants in order to enhance maternal parenting behavior.