Maternal Behavioral Control and Toddler Attachment Patterns: Exploring Associations in Early Development

This study delves into the relations between the level of maternal behavioral control and toddlers’ attachment patterns, focusing on toddlers aged 12 to 24 months (M = 17.18 months, SD = 3.31). The sample consisted of 60 Egyptian mother-child dyads. Maternal behavioral control (conceptualized by Interpersonal Acceptance-Rejection Theory; IPARTheory) was measured using the Behavioral Control Scale, while the toddler's attachment pattern was assessed using Mary Ainsworth’s Strange Situation Procedure (SSP). Results revealed significant differences in maternal behavioral control levels in toddlers with secure and insecure attachment patterns. Specifically, maternal behavioral control was highest in toddlers with resistant attachment patterns, and lowest in toddlers with secure attachment patterns. No significant differences were found between maternal behavioral control in toddlers with secure and avoidant attachment patterns. These findings underscore the influence of maternal behavioral control during the toddlerhood stage. Limitations and future directions of research are discussed.