Family Factors of Conduct Problems in Children and their Genetic Aspects: Review of Empirical Research

The analysis of empirical studies and reviews was conducted to highlight the influence of four family factors: socio-economic status, family structure, parental stress (symptoms of anxiety and depression in mothers), and inconsistent discipline on children’s behavioral problems. Studies that assess heredity’s contribution to each factor were also examined. Known and hypothesized mechanisms that negatively affect child behavior are described. The importance of changing the proximal environment for correcting behavior problems, particularly inconsistent discipline, is emphasized.