Cultural Similarities and Differences in the Association of Parental Autonomy Support with Internalizing and Externalizing Problems: A Meta-Analysis

Abstract Based on Self-Determination Theory and Separation-Individuation Theory, the present meta-analysis examined whether the association between parental autonomy support and offspring internalizing and externalizing problems differs between countries and regions of the world, and according to national levels of individualism–collectivism and power distance. A systematic search of electronic databases yielded 404 studies from 53 countries, which were included in a hierarchical meta-analysis. On average, we found significant negative correlations of autonomy support with internalizing and externalizing problems, with minor between-country variance and no variation between regions. Although national levels of individualism-collectivism were not significant moderators, levels of power distance interacted with the content of autonomy support. Parental promotion of independence showed a weaker association with internalizing problems in countries with higher power distance scores; however, associations of promotion of volitional functioning with child problems did not vary by levels of power distance. Our results support the suggestion that the association between parental promotion of volitional functioning and child outcomes tends to be similar across cultures, whereas the association between parental promotion of independence and those outcomes shows some cultural variation.