Racial Differences in Parental Involvement and Physical and Psychological Maltreatment: Processes Related to Regard for Parents

Abstract

Research indicates that perceptions of and regard for parents are important in the parent–child relationship of emerging adults and associated with both emotional and social adjustment and development. We examined the relationship between current regard for parents, parental involvement, and conflict tactics during emerging adulthood among White and Black emerging adults. The sample consisted of 1,401 participants ranging from 18 to 25 years. Current perceptions of mothers and fathers and conflict tactics were measured separately via an online survey using the Parental Environment Questionnaire and the Conflict Tactics Scale: Parent–Child version. Blacks reported lower parental involvement than Whites. When examining perceptions of mothers, Blacks, compared with Whites, reported more maternal physical maltreatment. When examining perceptions of fathers, Blacks, compared with Whites, reported less regard for fathers but no differences with regard for mothers. Additionally, Blacks, compared with Whites, reported higher maternal psychological maltreatment.