Positive Maternal Practices and Child Perceived Stress as Predictors of Child's Motor Persistence

Motor persistence is an indicator of executive functions that involve maintaining the components of intentional movement. Due to its all-or-none nature, motor persistence may be considered the most direct manifestation of inhibitory control as one of the executive functions. Previous studies have shown that stress in childhood predicts poorer executive functions, and the negative impact of perceived stress has been identified in samples of adolescents. Parental practices are also important factors in child development and play an essential role in the formation of executive functions. Positive parenting practices facilitate the internalization of the self-regulatory process. However, the relationship between perceived stress among preschoolers, parental practices, and motor persistence is still limited. This study investigates the relationship between motor persistence and maternal practices in the context of a child's stress. The sample of the study included 194 mothers and their children. Mothers were in the age range of 23 to 48 years old (M = 34.91, SD = 6.52), while children were in the age range of 5 to 8 years old (M = 6.5, SD = 0.37). Additionally, 49% of the children were male and 51% were female. Data collection was conducted using a subtest of the NEPSY-II Statue, the Perceived Stress Scale for Children, and the Parenting Practices Survey. The current study found that perceived stress could decrease motor persistence, but warmth and maternal practices that demonstrate attachment and support might mitigate this negative effect. The results of the study could be applied in educational programs for parents and in the work of psychologists, teachers, and practitioners who interact with families with preschoolers.