Parental beliefs and their role in child-rearing

Abstract

Beliefs have been a topic of considerable interest among researchers in various fields. In this article 71 articles reporting a study on parental beliefs and published in the course of fifteen years (1980-1995) are reviewed. After clarifying the term 'belief', the topics and the methodological solutions of the studies are discussed. Throughout the discussion the question of the origins of parental beliefs and the belief - behaviour dilemma are dealt with. Finally, the implications of the findings and suggestions for future research are presented.