Exploración de los estilos de crianza y su influencia en el trastorno negativista desafiante en niños

Abstract

Behavioral disorders in childhood are a priority issue in clinical psychology, as they encompass problems that arise during different developmental stages in boys, girls and teenagers, with symptoms that may appear at an early age. Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is one of the most commonly identified disorders without proper intervention, which has led to the development and persistence of symptoms related to child-rearing factors. Caregivers impart their own child-rearing style that shapes the child's behavior. The study employed a qualitative approach, using semi-structured interviews that allowed an in-depth exploration of the case under investigation. Thus, it contributes to understanding the influence of child-rearing practices on the origin and evolution of specific behavioral disorders in childhood. This research thoroughly examined the case of Saul, an 8-year old boy from Santa Rosa, Ecuador, with signs of ODD. Through semi-structured interviews with his caregivers, his paternal grandmother, mother and father, the dynamics and child-rearing styles towards the boy were deeply explored. Once the data collection process was completed, the obtained data was categorized as follows: a) Indicators of child-rearing styles; b) Manifestation of ODD; c) Risk factors; d) Protective factors. With regards to the results of the interviews, different cases were evident in the child's upbringing context. The data revealed significant divergences in each caregiver's dynamics: the grandmother applies an authoritarian style of parenting, the mother is permissive, and the father promotes a democratic upbringing. This disparity is directly linked to the inconsistency in the manifestations of irritability, defiance and challenging behaviors exhibited by the child. Additionally, environmental risk factors were identified such as inadequate discipline and supervision, as well as protective factors like effective communication with the parents. The interaction between these elements modulates symptom expression. In conclusion, this qualitative approach enriches the understanding of the ODD phenomenon considering particular sociocultural characteristics of the studied population. The findings will set a precedent on this poorly investigated child mental health issue locally in Ecuador.