Latinx children experience behavioral and physical health disparities early in development that persist into adulthood; it is not known how children’s physiological stress regulation relates to disparities in Latinx children or how Latinx caregivers can buffer their children from these negative outcomes. This project examines positive parenting as a buffer of the link between child physiological stress regulation and behavioral and academic adjustment during early childhood.
Dr. Calzada will work with PI Cindy Suveg from the University of Georgia to provide expert consultation on conceptual and methodological issues related to Latinx parenting to ensure cultural relevance. She will also contribute her expertise regarding heterogeneity and intersectionality in Latinx immigrant families. The results will identify family and contextual factors that can be leveraged into culturally informed intervention programming to reduce disparities and improve the overall well- being of Latinx families.