Family Life & Parenting Research
Studying family dynamics, parenting practices, and their impact on child development and family well-being.
Research Overview
Our family life and parenting research program examines the complex dynamics of family systems and the practices that promote healthy child development and family functioning. We investigate how family structures, processes, and contexts influence individual and collective well-being, with a particular focus on African families.
Through a combination of observational, survey, and interview methods, we aim to understand the challenges facing contemporary families and identify strategies that support family resilience and thriving. Our research informs the development of family-centered policies, programs, and interventions.
Family Systems
Examining the interactions and relationships within family units
Parenting Practices
Investigating approaches to child-rearing and their outcomes
Family Well-being
Studying factors that contribute to healthy, thriving families
Research Focus Areas
Our key areas of investigation in family and parenting research
Parenting Styles Research
Our research on parenting styles examines different approaches to child-rearing and their impact on child development and family functioning. We investigate how cultural, social, and individual factors influence parenting practices and how these practices shape children's outcomes.
Cultural Influences
Examining how culture shapes parenting approaches
Discipline Strategies
Investigating approaches to guiding children's behavior
Parent-Child Relationships
Studying the quality of interactions between parents and children
Current Research Projects
Our ongoing investigations in family and parenting research
Parenting Practices and Child Development
A longitu dinal study examining the relationship between parenting practices and child development outcomes in Ghanaian families.
Parenting in the Digital Age
An investigation into how digital technology influences parenting practices and family dynamics in contemporary Ghanaian families.
Family Resilience in Times of Crisis
A study examining how families cope with and adapt to major stressors and challenges, including economic hardship, health crises, and social disruption.
Recent Publications
Our latest research findings and insights on family life and parenting
Parenting Practices and Child Development in Urban Ghana
Boateng, E., Kwame, D., & Owusu, A.
Child Development Research, 2023
Vol. 12, Issue 4, pp. 321-338
Parenting in the Digital Age: Challenges for Ghanaian Families
Boateng, E., Addo, G., & Mensah, S.
Journal of Family Issues, 2023
Vol. 44, Issue 2, pp. 178-195
Family Resilience During Economic Hardship: A Qualitative Study
Kwame, D., Boateng, E., & Osei, J.
Family Process, 2022
Vol. 61, Issue 3, pp. 845-862
Cultural Influences on Parenting Styles in Ghana
Mensah, S., Boateng, E., & Addo, G.
Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology, 2022
Vol. 53, Issue 2, pp. 245-262
Research Team
Meet the researchers leading our family and parenting studies
Dr. Emmanuel Boateng
Lead Researcher, Family Studies
Dr. Boateng specializes in parenting practices and child development research.
Mr. Daniel Kwame
Senior Researcher
Mr. Kwame focuses on family resilience and adaptation to challenges.
Ms. Abena Owusu
Research Associate
Ms. Owusu specializes in digital media and its impact on family dynamics.
Support Our Research
Your contribution helps us continue our vital research on family life and parenting, generating knowledge that can strengthen families and support child development.