First things first: Family activities and routines, time management and attention

Abstract

Previous research has demonstrated a relationship between family stability and adjustment, which is partially mediated by self-regulatory behavior (e.g., self-control). However, the relationships between family stability and time management, one aspect of self-regulation, and attention problems have not yet been explored. The present study investigates the associations between perceived family stability while growing up, current time management and attention problems, and it evaluates time management as a mediator of the relationship between family stability and attention problems in a sample of 292 emerging adults. Perceived family stability was assessed retrospectively using the Stability of Activities in the Family Environment, and current aspects of time management and attention problems were measured using the Time Management Questionnaire and Adult Self-Report, respectively. Using bootstrapping methods, results indicated that time management mediates the relationship between perceived family stability and attention problems. These findings suggest possible targets of prevention and intervention for attention problems.