Research on Parenting Approach and its Impact on Children's Mental Health

According to a comparative study published in the International Journal of Science and Research Archive, children raised in democratic-permissive households develop stronger social skills, self-confidence, and an increased sense of responsibility. In contrast, those raised under an authoritarian parenting style often show lower self-esteem, increased dependency on their parents, anxiety, and social difficulties.

In addition to these findings, the study also notes that when a democratic-permissive style involves more dialectical interaction — meaning, parents and children engage in open dialogue and have a mutual understanding — children are less likely to develop “internalized” symptoms like anxiety and depression.

Understanding the benefits of a democratic-permissive parenting style and adopting this approach may help reduce the risk of mental health issues in children and teens. According to the World Health Organization, conditions like depression, anxiety, and behavioral disorders affect 10% of young people worldwide — and most of those who suffer do not seek help or receive it.

Understanding the Study

This study focuses on the impact of parenting styles on children’s development. The term “parenting styles” refers to how a parent interacts with their child, how they discipline them, and how they respond to the child’s behavior. These styles influence different aspects of a child’s life, such as:

• Self-esteem
• Social skills
• Emotional state

Two types of parenting styles are being studied in this paper:

Democratic-permissive parenting, which combines elements of both democratic and permissive parenting, encourages children to express their opinions freely. Here, children learn to develop autonomy to manage themselves, make their own choices, and learn from them. While parents using this style communicate rules and expectations, they are willing to consider the child’s perspectives.

Authoritarian parenting, on the other hand, involves high expectations of the child’s performance. Because of this, the parent would impose strict rules and expect the child to comply without question. Non-compliance usually results in punishment or consequences.

The study notes these main differences between these parenting styles:

• Independence: democratic-permissive parents support children’s autonomy, whereas authoritarian parents impose strict control and limit independence.
• Communication: democratic-permissive parents encourage open communication, whereas authoritarian parents use one-way communication.
• Emotional atmosphere: democratic-permissive parents create a warm and loving atmosphere, whereas authoritarian parents create a cold and hostile atmosphere.

Practical Tips for Parents and Caregivers

Based on the findings of this study, here are some strategies that you, as a parent or caregiver, can consider as you reflect on your approach:

• Promote social-emotional learning (SEL). This is usually taught in schools, but parents can implement this at home for better emotional regulation, social skills (e.g., effective communication, conflict resolution, resilience), and improved academic performance. Read this article to learn activities that support SEL.
• Actively listen to your child’s thoughts, feelings, experiences, and goals. When you give them your full attention and engage at their level, communication improves. This is especially important, even when you’re busy or preoccupied with other things.
• Set clear boundaries and expectations, but be open to adjusting them, especially as your child’s needs change. Be there to support them emotionally without micromanaging them.

Here is a list of 9 evidence-based parenting books for every need and situation.

The study concludes that combining these elements helps children integrate smoothly into society. “Through this approach, children can evolve as responsible and conscious citizens,” the authors wrote.

For additional resources to support children’s mental health, check out our Self-Esteem Worksheets and Social Skills Worksheets.