Maternal technology distraction and its associations with stress and parenting during the COVID-19 pandemic

ABSTRACT

The widespread adoption of digital technology devices has introduced unique challenges to modern parenthood, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when parents relied on digital technology more than ever before. Parents have experienced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, with mothers being especially vulnerable to stress and mental health problems. This study investigates associations between technology distraction of mothers while spending time with their offspring, psychological well-being (stress sensitivity), and parenting behaviors (warmth and indifference) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mothers (n = 246) of adolescents (aged 13-18) who attended public secondary schools in Italy completed an online survey during the fourth wave of COVID-19. The pattern of associations was analyzed via path analysis. COVID-19 pandemic-induced stressors were positively associated with perceived stress, which was positively associated with technology distraction of mothers when spending time with their offspring. Furthermore, maternal technology distraction was positively associated with indifference and negatively associated with warmth. Perceived stress was negatively associated only with warmth. Strategies to mitigate stress during times of crisis and adversity might be useful for potentially vulnerable targets (e.g., mothers living with offspring during the COVID-19 pandemic). Information and prevention actions should be focused on how parents use digital devices while with their offspring. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved) Impact Statement This study examined potential correlates of maternal technological distraction while mothers spent time with their offspring during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results indicate that COVID-19-specific effects on life dimensions (e.g., relationships with family members/friends, work performance, family financial situations) were associated with high perceived stress, which was associated with greater technology distraction of mothers when spending time with their offspring. Furthermore, maternal technology distraction was linked to negative parental behaviors (higher indifference and lower warmth), suggesting the relevance of using strategies to mitigate stress in potentially vulnerable persons during times of crisis such as the pandemic context. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved)