The Impact of Parenting Style on Psychological Development

The way caregivers parent their children significantly shapes cognitive, emotional, and social development. Healthy parenting helps kids grow into emotionally stable adults. In contrast, unhealthy parenting often leads to enduring psychological difficulties. These difficulties may persist into adulthood.

Here are the four common types of parenting styles and their impact on child development:

Authoritative

Authoritative parents are patient, warm, and loving with their children. They are responsive to their kids’ needs and set clear, reasonable boundaries. This type of caregiving gives children a healthy sense of independence. It also instills self-control and emotional stability. Children will often carry these traits into adulthood.

Authoritarian

Authoritarian parents express little warmth or empathy for their children. They impose rigid rules and expectations. They demand unquestioning obedience and enforce it through harsh discipline. This type of parenting tends to create anxiety in kids. It also diminishes self-esteem and provokes rebellious behavior.

Permissive

Permissive parents are often very loving. But, they fail to provide healthy boundaries and limits. They do not give needed discipline. They blur the lines between parent and friend with their kids. This type of parenting often leads to impulsive or risky behaviors. Children may also struggle with decision-making skills.

Neglectful

Neglectful parents are emotionally unavailable to their children. They may meet basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter. But, they are largely uninvolved in their kids’ lives. This parenting style often leads to children feeling abandoned and insecure.

As a licensed psychologist, I specialize in helping people resolve mental health challenges that may stem from childhood experiences. I will work with you to create a safe and supportive environment. I will help you discover your difficulties, empower you with tools and knowledge, and help you heal.

Schedule your appointment with me today at Michael Kimball Integrative Psychotherapy in Toledo, Ohio. I’m proud to work with clients from Northwest Ohio and Southeastern Michigan including Sylvania, Maumee, Temperance, and Monroe. My goal is to help you learn how to live a happy life.