This metaanalysis examined different parental variables in order to determine which best predict children's externalizing behavior. Also examined were other variables that may influence the association of parenting and externalizing, such as type of child behavior, gender of parent and child, and age of child. Parental variables included in the analyses were approval, guidance, motivation setting, noncoercion, synchrony, affection, and miscellaneous behaviors. Findings indicated that several caregiving variables, namely, approval, guidance, motivation setting, noncoercion, and synchrony, significantly predicted absence of externalizing behavior. These variables better predicted absence of externalizing behavior when considered in combination than when considered individually. Boys' externalizing behavior was more associated with parental responsiveness than was girls'. This was especially the case among preadolescents who were with their mothers. Stronger parent-child associations were found for mothers than for fathers and for grade school children than for preschool children. It is concluded that the findings point to the importance of parental responsiveness and parent-child reciprocity. (Author/RH)