A Review of Behavioral Differences Among Children of Working and Non-Working Mothers: Implications for Pediatric Nursing

Author Name: Ms. Swati Sharma, Mrs Kalpana Mohan, Ms. Heena bahl

Volume: 03/02

Country: India

DOI NO.: 11.2023-61555522 DOI Link: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/08.2025-14242775/GIJNR

Affiliation:

1. Nursing Tutor, Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Nursing &Research, MMU, Sadopur, Ambala, Haryana
2. Assistant Professor, Maharishi Markandeshwar  Institute of Nursing & Research, MMU, Sadopur -Ambala , Haryana,
3. Nursing Tutor, Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Nursing &Research, MMU, Sadopur, Ambala, Haryana.

ABSTRACT

The increasing participation of women in the workforce has brought significant attention to the potential behavioral differences in children raised by working and non-working mothers. This review aims to synthesize existing research on how maternal employment status influences behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and social development among children, and to explore its implications for pediatric nursing practices. The review also highlights the mediating effects of socioeconomic factors, parenting styles, and childcare quality on these behavioral outcomes (Kalil & DeLeire, 2002; Baumrind, 1991). A comprehensive search was conducted using databases including PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Scopus. Keywords included “working mothers,” “non-working mothers,” “child behavior,” “maternal employment,” and “pediatric nursing.” Studies published between 2010 and 2024 were selected based on relevance, peer-review status, and methodological rigor. Findings indicate that children of working mothers may show greater independence and social competence, attributed to early exposure to structured environments and peer interactions (Belsky et al., 2007; NICHD, 2006). Conversely, children of non-working mothers tend to exhibit stronger attachment security and emotional regulation due to prolonged maternal presence (Barlow et al., 2010). However, outcomes are significantly moderated by the quality of caregiving and family support systems (Vandell & Wolfe, 2000). These findings have important implications for pediatric nurses, who play a vital role in early behavioral screening, parental counseling, and the promotion of supportive caregiving environments regardless of maternal employment status (Wissow, 2015).

Key words: Behavioral Differences,Working Mothers, Pediatric Nursing