Family functioning components as predictors of internalizing and externalizing disorders in children

Abstract

The aim of the present research was to study correlation between family functioning components and internalizing and externalizing disorders as well as to determine the contribution of each family functioning component in creating these disorders in 7-11 year old children. This was a descriptive (correlation of prediction type) kind of research. Family functioning components were as predictor variables and internalizing and externalizing disorders were as criteria variables. Research sample was in the form of cluster sampling in which 95 mothers responded to family assessment device (FAD) and child behavior check list (CBCL) questionnaires. In this research, statistical method of correlation and regression analysis with entry method were utilized. Findings showed that all subscales of emotional/behavioral disorders in children have negative correlation with family functioning indexes and all these indexes have meaningful negative correlation with internalizing disorders and only the two indexes of problem solving and control of behavior have meaningful negative correlation with externalizing disorders. Amongst family functioning indexes, the two indexes of emotional responsiveness and overall performance are capable of predicting internalizing disorders and only the control of behavior index is capable of predicting externalizing disorders in children.