ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a summary of the research on the influence of economic factors and parenting. Economic factors are virtually nonexistent among the myriad interventions that have been developed to improve parenting behaviors. The economic and parenting practices often centers on socioeconomic status (SES), a concept measured in a plethora of ways. The economic history of a family and the persistence of economic distress may give better insight into the psychological impact of poverty on parenting behaviors. Employment status suggests that, in general, paid labor can enhance parenting quality as opposed to non-employment, but that higher-status and part-time jobs have the largest positive impact on parenting behavior. Stress caused by economic hardship can lead to insensitive parenting and potentially poor outcomes for developing children. The development of coping skills to manage work, family, and financial stress seems crucial to positively affecting parenting practices. The socioeconomic factors interact with numerous socio-cultural and psychological variables that impact parenting practices.
