Peer Interaction and social competence in childhood and early adolescence: the affects of parental behaviour

The development of social competence is associated with the set of parental behaviour. The main aim of the study is to verify if different parental styles (Authoritarian, Permissive, Authoritative) affect the child behaviour displayed during peer interactions in an ecological context such as the classroom, according to child’s gender and age. 496 children from 3 to 15 years old, their parents and teachers were involved in our study. Results show that children who are exposed to an Authoritarian parenting in childhood are aggressive, hyperactive and incapable to regulate their own behaviour. Permissive parental style defines an increase of frustration, negative emotionality, and depression. Authoritative parental style promotes the achievement of important social goals/skills. Different affect according to children’s gender and age are discussed. Socio-economic status is positively correlated with an authoritative parenting style and with the increase of prosocial behaviour in children.