The Effect of Marriage Satisfaction of Mothers with Infants on Parenting Behavior: Focusing on the Double Mediation Effect of Self-esteem and Parenting Stress

Objectives The purpose of this study is to understand the effect of marriage satisfaction on parenting behavior of mothers with infants and to verify the mediating effect of self-esteem and parenting stress in this relationship. Methods The subjects of the study included 2,711 mothers with infants under 3-12 months of age using data from the first year of the Korean Infant Education and Childcare Panel. For analysis, frequency analysis, descriptive statistical analysis, and correlation analysis were performed using SPSS 27.0 and Amos 23.0 programs, and the mediating effect was verified by applying structural equation model analysis and bootstrapping method. Results First, marriage satisfaction was found to have a positive effect on mother's self-esteem and parenting behavior, and a negative effect on parenting stress. Second, self-esteem had a positive effect on parenting behavior and showed a negative correlation with parenting stress. Third, it was confirmed that in the relationship between marriage satisfaction and parenting behavior, self-esteem and parenting stress were partially mediated by each, and sequentially. Conclusions It was confirmed that the higher the marriage satisfaction, the higher the mother's self-esteem and parenting stress, leading to positive parenting behavior. This study emphasizes the need for a program to promote self-esteem as well as support to improve mother's marriage satisfaction, and presents policy implications for the healthy development of children and the overall welfare of the family.