The moderating effect of parent-child relationship on children’s mental health during COVID-19 quarantine

Abstract

The mandatory domestic quarantine from 23rd, January to 8th, April in Wuhan due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is unprecedented in public health history in China. Its impact on people’s short-term negative psychological effects had been reported in both previous and current studies, especially for young children who are vulnerable to home environmental risks. Using data collected before and after Wuhan lockdown among children and parents in a Wuhan kindergarten T, this study provides empirical evidence on the negative impacts on parents and children from the pandemic, and particularly the moderating effect of parent-child relationship on children’s mental health. Qualitative analysis further illustrates that a good parent-child relationship could be fostered by parenting programs aiming at improving parenting skills, enhancing understanding of children’s psychological needs and promoting parent-child interactions. This indicates that parent-child relationship based on effective parenting programs are vital in reducing children’s emotional problems in the face of difficulties and disasters such as the COVID-19 quarantine.