A mediational model of the impact of interparental conflict on child adjustment in a multiethnic, low-income sample

Path analysis was used to determine whether the effects of interparental co nflict on children's depression and conduct disorder are mediated by 3 dime nsions of parenting: acceptance, inconsistent discipline, and hostile contr ol. The study extends the Literature by testing this mediational model with a low-income, predominantly ethnic minority sample of preadolescent childr en and by examining the effects of multiple dimensions of interparental con flict from the child's perspective. Results supported the mediational model when analyses were based on child's reports of all variables but not when mother's reports were used to assess child depression and conduct problems. Exploratory analyses revealed unique mediational paths associated with con flict frequency and resolution, which were examined along with intensity as distinct dimensions of interparental conflict.