Study: Family Stability And Behavior Problems In Children

The twists and turns of parental love lives can have drastic effects on the behavior and academic success of children, particularly where divorce is involved. A new study shows just how important a stable family is to child behavior and achievement, even if parents are single.

In "Family Instability and Child Well-Being," researchers studied children's family history, cognitive development and mother-reported behavioral assessments. They found that each family transition (breakup, divorce, cohabitation or remarriage) was associated with an increase in behavioral problems. Multiple transitions were also associated with frequent delinquent behaviors such as theft and vandalism. These children also had lower math and reading skills.

These findings were especially true for white children, while black children experienced fewer problems. Researchers speculate that this is because black children are more likely to have the support of extended family nearby.

ABSTRACT: Family Instability and Child Well-Being