Parent Socialization Goals Moderate Relations between Emotion Socialization and Adjustment in Toddlerhood

This study considered toddler adjustment, emotion-related parenting, and broader socialization goals in a sample of 84 parents and 20-36-month-old toddlers. Toddler adjustment was better when parents' frequent expressions of positive emotions were paired with relational goals, and poorer when parents were unsupportive of toddlers’ negative emotions yet expected toddler autonomy.