The Control Dimension of Parenting Behavior The finding that IVF women employed greater controlling parenting behaviors is not surprising because these Women tend to experience more distress and frustration than Women who conceive naturally. In addition, IVF infants are known to have a higher incidence of health problems. In light of this, the relatively greater controlling behaviors used by IVF women may reflect related anxiety. Whereas some controlling parenting behaviors may be used to discipline and facilitate a child’s socialization, high levels of controlling parenting behaviors may constrain the development of his or her autonomy and psychological well-being. Cultural differences and social expectations of mothers may also influence controlling parenting behaviors. As a result, the conceptualization and measurement of controlling parenting behaviors remain unclear, and the impact on a child’s psychological development remains controversial. Controlling parenting behaviors may be a response to the distress of infertility and IVF, or it may reflect underlying personality traits. It may be that Women with a greater controlling trait who find themselves involuntarily childless are more likely to seek the assistance of reproductive technology.