Development of Social Skills in Kindergarten: A Latent Class Growth Modeling Approach

Abstract

Social skills acquired during early childhood are often the foundation for success later in life. Using a nationwide survey dataset in Japan, this study aims to explore the multiple growth trajectories of social skills among children in kindergarten by using a latent class growth modeling approach. It also examines whether, and to what extent, the home-rearing environment at early age predict trajectories of social skills development. Children in this study were assessed on social skills at three waves, four home-rearing environment dimensions (human stimulation, social stimulation, avoidance of punishment, and social support for parenting) and demographic background were measured at wave 1. The results indicated that three distinct growth trajectories of social skills existed during kindergarten: high increase levels, moderate increase levels, and decreased levels. The avoidance of punishment and children’s gender significantly predicted the growth trajectories of social skills. Thus, the results suggest that more attention should be paid to the home-rearing environment and boys.

Intergenerational associations of adverse and positive maternal childhood experiences with young children’s psychosocial well-being

“…The results also revealed that children whose mothers had higher PCEs were less likely to have psychosocial difficulties. Parents with higher PCEs may be more likely to generate feelings of kindness, compassion, and security in their children (Narayan et al, 2019 ), which may enhance parent–child relationships and decrease the risk of behavioural problems (Zhu et al, 2021 ). More PCEs in childhood may lead to better long-term mental health outcomes and fewer chronic health problems as children age (Shaw et al, 2003 ), which may reduce the risk of psychological problems in children (Boursnell, 2011 ).…”

Impact of Parenting Practices and Family Functioning on Psychological Adjustment of Adolescents with ADHD: Role of Early Maladaptive Schemas

“…This trend of relationship is indicative of maladjustment among ADHD adolescents. The importance of supervision and discipline are very crucial elements during development in acquiring good social and academic skills in general (i.e., accomplishing daily tasks and homework) (Zhu et al, 2021;Loe et al, 2007;Aduen et al, 2018). It is also evident that lack of discipline may further complicate the behavioral and social difficulties of children and adolescents with ADHD (Teixeira et al, 2015;Tung, 2012).…”

Subtyping of Internalizing and Externalizing Behaviors in Japanese Community-Based Children: A Latent Class Analysis and Association with Family Activities

“…Family is the first health avenue for children. Studies have shown that parents’ positive engagement with children in social activities is correlated with children’s general emotional and behavioral development [ 21 , 22 ]. A positive parent–child relationship can be a protective factor against children’s internalizing or externalizing behavioral problems [ 23 , 24 ], and this relationship can be encouraged by family activities, such as playing games and sharing meals [ 25 , 26 ].…”