This study examines the relationship between maternal childrearing practices (specifically, nurturance and restrictiveness) and a number of demographic and personality variables. A total of 232 mothers of preschool age children from different socioeconomic levels and ethnic groups participated in the study. Each subject was sent six instruments intended for self-administration. Instruments were chosen to elicit information on demographic characteristics (such as names, number, ages, and sex of children); marital status and education; ethnic background; and religious affiliation, childrearing practices, internal/external locus of control, depression experience, and social readjustment to stressful life events. It was found that state and trait anxiety and depression represent an important unitary factor in explaining restrictive styles of childrearing. Religious preferences, education, and ethnicity were also predictive of restrictiveness. Education emerged as being a positive predictor of nurturance. The results indicate the importance of considering a broad assignment of associated maternal personality and demographic factors before attempting to modify childrearing attitudes. (Author/MP)