Longitudinal study of observed and perceived family influences on problem-focused coping behaviors of preadolescents with spina bifida

Objective: To study coping socialization longitudinally by examining report ed and observed family environment and parenting variables in relation to c hildren's problem-focused coping in a sample of 68 families of preadolescen ts with spina bifida and 68 matched able-bodied comparison families. Methods: Family environment and parenting variables were assessed with moth er and father reports and observational measures. Children's problem-focuse d coping was self-reported. Results: Prospective analyses revealed that maternal responsiveness, patern al responsiveness, and family cohesion predicted an increase in children's use of problem-focused coping strategies, while change in paternal responsi veness and maternal responsiveness and demandingness was related concurrent ly to change in coping. Few group (spina bifida vs, able-bodied) or gender differences with respect to parenting and family influences on children's c oping behaviors were found. Conclusions: Multimethod findings suggest that the quality of parenting and family environment is associated with children's problem-focused coping be haviors. We discuss clinical implications.