Applied Psychology

Applied Psychology

Investigating the Mediating role of Using Screens in the Relationship Between Parent's Reflective Function and Cognitive Skills in Preschool Children

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Hedye Aghamohseni 1
Zohreh Khosravi 2
Azadeh Tavoli 3
1 Master’s degree in clinical psychology, Department of Psychology, Faculty of education and psychology, Alzahra University,Tehran, Iran.
2 Professor, Department of Psychology, Faculty of education and psychology, Alzahra University,Tehran, Iran.
3 Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, Faculty of education and psychology, Alzahra University,Tehran, Iran.
10.48308/apsy.2025.241549.1900
Abstract
Aim: This study investigated the relationship between parental reflective functioning and cognitive skills in preschool children, with screen time as a mediating variable.
 
Method: This correlational study used a structural equation modeling approach. The population included mothers of 4–6-year-old children in Tehran in 2023. A sample of 201 mothers was selected via convenience sampling. Data were collected using the Parental Reflective Functioning Questionnaire, the Ages and Stages Questionnaire, and the Screen Time Questionnaire. Analyses were conducted using SPSS-26 and SmartPLS-4.
 
Results: Significant associations were observed among parental reflective functioning, screen time, and children’s cognitive skills. Parental reflective functioning positively predicted screen time (β = 0.61, t = 15.09, p < 0.01), whereas screen time negatively predicted cognitive skills (β = −0.18, t = 1.97, p < 0.05). Parental reflective functioning also showed a direct positive relationship with cognitive skills (β = 0.23, t = 2.00, p < 0.05). Screen time significantly mediated the association between parental reflective functioning and children’s cognitive skills.
 
Conclusion: Parental reflective functioning influences children’s cognitive development both directly and indirectly through screen time. Enhancing reflective functioning and regulating children’s screen exposure may support healthier cognitive outcomes in preschool children.
Keywords
Cognitive Skills
Preschool Children
Parental Reflective Functioning
Screen Media Use
Subjects
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