Conducted in the US since 1991,
involving over 1,000 children from
diverse backgrounds.
At age 5, children who had been in day care
were rated as more assertive, disobedient and
aggressive. Children in full time care (30+ hrs)
were three times more likely to show
behavioural problems.
NICHD results could show day care is not
necessarily associated with aggressiveness.
83% of children attending day care for less
than 30 hours did not show higher levels of
aggression (Friedman)
NICHD data also shows that the mother's sensitivity to
her child was a better indicator of reported problem
behaviours than the time spent in day care (less
sensitivity = more behaviour problems)
Research does not demonstrate that day care has
caused behavioural problems, only that there is a
correlation between the two
Mediating factors: Quality of care (NICHD)
Lack of
commitment
from parents
Individual differences
Number of hours spent
in day care
Child's age (it is said if a child starts day care
before 18 months they are more likely to
show negative effects