Exploring the relationship between parental self-efficacy and social support systems

Parenting children stands as one of the most influential activities one can attempt (Ardelt and Eccles, 2001). Raising a child to adulthood and equipping that child with the necessary skills to enter successfully into society requires dedication as well as knowledge (Spoth & Conroy, 1993). To further understand the factors that shape mothers' parenting behavior, self-efficacy in parenting knowledge and skills, as well as perception of a personal social support system will be examined. This study features Caucasian and Hispanic mothers who live in rural communities across 17 states and who have low-incomes and young children. This study examines the relationship between parental self-efficacy and social support to better understand the influences on parenting.