A Model for Role Transition of Older Mothers with Preschool Children

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to construct a model to explain the parenting satisfaction associated with the role transition of older mothers with preschool children. Methods: The participants of this study were mothers of 3- to 6-year-old children who gave birth after 35 years of age, and were drawn from 16 child care centers and 8 kindergartens in 4 administrative districts of B city. Data were analyzed using SPSS for Windows version 22.0 and AMOS for Windows version 22.0. Results: Parental stress, mother-child interactions, parental beliefs regarding personality, and socioeconomic status (income, education, and occupation) had direct effects on parenting satisfaction. Social support also showed direct and indirect effects. Among the sub factors of child temperament, sociability had a significant effect. These variables explained 57.4% of the variation in parenting satisfaction. Conclusion: The results of this study will contribute to the development of effective programs to enhance the parenting satisfaction of older mothers, and will help older mothers through the role transition necessary for the growth of their children.