Detailed contribution information
| Contribution title | Changes in family structure and their impact on emotional and behavioral problems in early adolescence in the French EDEN cohort |
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| Contribution code | D2.055 |
| Authors | |
| Form of presentation | Poster |
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| Abstract |
AIM Traditional two-parent families are increasingly replaced by diverse arrangements such as single-parent households and step-families. Children from non-traditional families face heightened risks of internalizing and externalizing disorders compared to peers in stable two-parent families. Early parental divorce and family transitions are particularly associated with adverse outcomes, but evidence on their long-term impact is mixed. Some studies suggest partial recovery over time, while others point to persistent or worsening effects. This study aims to explore how family structure and transitions during infancy and childhood influence internalizing and externalizing problems in early adolescence. METHODS Using longitudinal data from the French EDEN cohort, family structure was assessed at multiple time points from pregnancy through age 11. Sequence analysis identified patterns and transitions in family structure over time. Emotional and behavioral outcomes were measured using the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Regression analysis was used to test the association between identified sequences over time with adolescent socio-emotional outcomes, adjusting for relevant stable and time-varying covariates. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Three clusters of family structure trajectories emerged: Long-term Stable two-parent families (n=1209), Early Stable families transitioning later in childhood (n=387), and Early Transitions families (n=320). Children from families with transitions showed significantly higher rates of internalizing and externalizing problems at age 11 compared to those from stable two-parent families, with transitions before age three having the strongest impact. These findings emphasize the need for targeted support when early family transitions occur, to mitigate their potential long-term adverse effects on child development. |