As children grow, it becomes evident that parenting plays a crucial role in shaping their mental health. The type of parenting a child experiences significantly affects their emotional regulation, cognitive strength, ability to articulate feelings, and overall well-being. The impact of informed and supportive parenting goes beyond childhood, influencing a child’s confidence, security, and potential for future success. Conversely, inadequate parenting can lead to issues such as low self-esteem, hindering a child’s development (Zakeri, 2011).
Challenging situations, be it familial strife or emotional pain, have profound effects on a child’s mental health. Negative experiences, while not guaranteeing future problems, increase the likelihood of mental health issues like depression and PTSD, leading to physical harm, unsafe habits, and limited educational opportunities (Doinita, Doinita, Nanu Elena, and Nijloveanu Dorina Maria, 2015). Hence, parenting experiences or negligence leave a lasting impact on a child.
Studies suggest that authoritative, permissive, and authoritarian parenting styles are most prevalent and linked to underdeveloped and negatively impacted children’s brains (Doinita, Attachment and parenting styles, 2015). Authoritarian parenting may make children feel penalized and uncomfortable due to a more distant parental demeanor. Similarly, an authoritative parenting style may restrict a child’s ability to establish open communication with parents. Permissive parenting, characterized by minimal standards, can lead to impulsive behavior in children as they grow older.
Additionally, overly uninvolved parenting leaves children feeling isolated, affecting their ability to engage with others and establish meaningful connections. Psychologists use terms like “Parental Control” and “Parental Warmth” to describe how parents govern their children’s behavior and how accepting and responsive they are (Rork, 2009).
To address these challenges, researchers and psychologists have devised strategies to train parents, aiming for improved intellectual, cognitive, and personality development in children. Educating parents on the impact of their parenting and offering guidance on managing authoritarian behaviors are critical steps. Changing negative habits is essential, as they hinder children’s emotional coping and healthy development. Both the family systems theory and the interpersonal acceptance-rejection (IPAR) theory affirm that parental practices directly impact children’s mental health (Fernández-García, 2017).
To foster a positive impact on children’s mental health, parents should prioritize consistency, reliability, and communication. Children thrive on knowing what to expect in terms of activities, consequences for rule-breaking, and rewards for good behavior. A strong parent-child relationship begins with trust, providing children with a sense of security (Farmer, 2013).
Parents should express genuine gratitude for their children’s accomplishments, steering away from detached or authoritarian styles. Regularly checking in on a child’s feelings and experiences helps maintain a close connection. Communication is key, and gentle conversations can build complete trust. Only 21% of children with mental health issues receive treatment, emphasizing the need for parents to seek professional help promptly if they notice changes in their children’s behavior (Doinita, Doinita, Nanu Elena, and Nijloveanu Dorina Maria, 2015).
In conclusion, parental influence on child mental health is undeniable, necessitating awareness and proactive steps to eliminate circumstances negatively affecting children’s psychological well-being. The habit of cheerfulness and open communication, coupled with seeking professional help when needed, ensures a holistic approach to nurturing a child’s mental health.
