Effects of Experiential Avoidance and Family Emotional Support on the Parental Psychological Flexibility of Mothers of Preschoolers

Abstract

<p><strong>Objective</strong>: This study examined the main and interactive effects of experiential avoidance and emotional support from families of origin and in-laws on the parental psychological flexibility (PPF) of mothers of preschoolers. <strong>Background</strong>: PPF is a key component of parenting quality and is closely linked to child development. While experiential avoidance has been identified as a psychological factor, few studies have examined the role of family emotional support, and none have distinguished between support from family of origin and in-laws. <strong>Method</strong>: This study used self-reported data from 335 Chinese mothers of preschoolers and hierarchical regression analyses. <strong>Results</strong>: Higher experiential avoidance was associated with lower PPF. Emotional support from family of origin was positively associated with PPF, whereas support from in-laws was negatively associated with it. A significant interaction showed that among mothers with high experiential avoidance, greater support from in-laws was related to lower PPF. <strong>Conclusion</strong>: This study provides a comprehensive examination of factors – both psychological and environmental – related to PPF. It highlights the complexity of family support systems by showing that support from family of origin may be beneficial, but support from in-laws may not. <strong>Implications</strong>: Interventions to enhance PPF should address both individual psychological factors and the source of family support.</p><p><strong>Keywords</strong>: Parental Psychological Flexibility; Experiential Avoidance; Emotional Support; Family Systems Theory; Mothers of Preschool Children</p>