Key Topics in Parenting and Family Psychology

This authoritative resource examines the significant influence parents have on children's developmental outcomes and the challenges of modern-day parenting. Highlighting the pivotal role parents play throughout their child's lifespan, this important book guides students through the complexities of raising children in the twenty-first century. Key features include the analysis of the dynamics between parents and children across generations and cultures, a comparison of the historical background of parenting with contemporary issues faced today, and an exploration of the multifaceted effects of parenting on children's development, including health, emotional wellbeing, and academic achievement. Practical strategies and interventions are provided to navigate the complexities of modern parenthood and support healthy child development. The authors conclude with discussions on future research, policies, and practices, envisioning improved support for families of the future. Providing essential knowledge to understand and enhance the parenting journey, this textbook is essential reading for students of psychology, social work, nursing, education and child development.

Alina Morawska is Director of the Parenting and Family Support Centre, The University of Queensland. She has published extensively in the field of parenting and family intervention and has received numerous grants to support her research. She has been recognised as Australia's top scholar in family studies. Amy E. Mitchell is Associate Professor in the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, The University of Queensland. Her research focuses on the role of parents and parenting in child health and development and uses evidence-based parenting support interventions to improve outcomes for children and families.

SECTION 1: Key Foundations 1. The role of parents in children's development 2. A brief history of parenting 3. Tasks and challenges of parenting across the lifespan SECTION 2: Key Theories 4. The effects of parenting on children's development 5. Parent- and child-level determinants of parenting 6. Social and cultural determinants of parenting SECTION 3: Key Methodologies 7. Assessing parenting and family interactions 8. Evidence-based parenting support 9. Engagement and innovation in parenting support SECTION 4: Key Impacts on Research, Practice, and Policy 10. Implications for research, policy, and practice SECTION 5: Key Emerging Areas 11. Challenges of parenting in the 21st century