The Relationship Between Psychosocial Problems of Preschool Children and Their Parents' Attachment Styles: Evidence From Family Health Centers
Abstract
Objective: This study aims to examine the relationship between parents’ attachment styles and behavioural problems of preschool children.
Materials and Methods: Utilizing a cross-sectional and correlational design, data were collected from 670 parents and their children registered at family health centers. Data were collected using the Child/Parent Information Form, the Pictorial Paediatric Symptom Checklist, and the Experiences in Close Relationships-Revised. Data were analysed using descriptives, Pearson correlation, and logistic regression analyses.
Results: The mean age of the parents was 35.00±5.19 years. The rate of psychosocial problems in preschoolers was 26.3%. A positive, weak relationship was found between parents’ attachment and psychosocial problems in children (p<0.05). Parental cohabitation status and anxious attachment style significantly predicted psychosocial problems in preschoolers (p = 0.001).
Conclusions: Psychosocial problems are highly prevalent among preschoolers, affecting one in four children. Parental cohabitation status and anxious attachment styles constitute significant risk factors. Therefore, primary care services should implement psychosocial screenings. Health professionals can implement early intervention programs for at-risk families within family medicine.
Keywords
Supporting Institution
Ethical Statement
Thanks
References
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Details
Primary Language
English
Subjects
Community Child Health, Family Medicine, Primary Health Care
Journal Section
Research Article
Authors
Can Taş Kolak
This is me
0000-0001-8201-1798
Türkiye
Şerife Koç
*
0000-0003-2463-0480
Türkiye
Early Pub Date
May 16, 2026
Publication Date
-
Submission Date
October 8, 2025
Acceptance Date
April 12, 2026
Published in Issue
Year 2026 Number: Advanced Online Publication