Children's mental health: The role of multiple risks and child care quality.

The study investigates how the quality of kindergarten affects children’s mental health, and whether high or low quality can protect against or worsen early risks, respectively. The researchers ask questions about which aspects of kindergarten quality are of the greatest significance for the development of mental health problems in children, and whether overall quality can mitigate negative outcomes for children at high risk. The researchers also ask whether higher quality in kindergarten can protect vulnerable children, and conversely, whether lower quality can increase the risk of mental health problems in these children

The study found that lower quality of care in kindergarten can increase the risk of mental health problems in children who are already exposed to early risks, while higher quality has a protective effect. The most significant quality factor was the quality of the relationship between kindergarten teachers and children. Overall quality and relational quality in kindergarten showed a protective effect against mental health problems, especially externalising problems. Overall, the results show that a safe and supportive kindergarten environment can reduce negative outcomes in vulnerable children.

The data were collected from questionnaires completed by mothers and kindergarten teachers who assessed children’s mental health at five years of age. The researchers also analysed the quality of relationships between kindergarten teachers and children, as well as various aspects of kindergarten practice. They used hierarchical regression models to evaluate the interaction between risk factors and the quality of care.

Wilhelmsen, T., Røysamb, E., Lekhal, R., Brandlistuen, R. E., Alexandersen, N., & Wang, M. V. (2023). Children's mental health: The role of multiple risks and child care quality. Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology, 86, 101546.