Research says that Parenting Styles have a major impact on the future mental health of children - Parents and past children, listen up!
Here’s what the research says and what to do about it..
Unveiling the Impact of Enmeshed Parenting Styles on Children's Mental Health
Have you ever wondered how your relationship with your parents growing up has impacted your mental health now?
OR, if you’re a parent - how your parenting style could shape your child's mental health in the long run?
I am going to share a research discovery on enmeshed parenting styles sheds light on this intriguing topic, drawing attention to its profound impact on children's well-being, and giving us an insight into what we can do differently (for kids if you have them and for ourselves)…
Enmeshed parenting, characterized by blurred boundaries and unclear roles, can lead children to assume inappropriate responsibilities, such as providing emotional support for parents.
This dynamic, as revealed by Jacobvitz et al.'s (2004) longitudinal study, has a direct link to increased mental health issues for children in the future.
What's REALLY interesting is the gender differences observed in the study.
Now, we need a 2024 research update on these dynamics to figure out if it is a gender difference, or if it is the societal expectations placed on each gender - but interesting nonetheless..
Boys are found to be at a heightened risk of ADHD, while girls face an increased susceptibility to depression and anxiety. These findings underscore the importance of understanding how family dynamics can influence children's mental health outcomes.
Moreover, this research reinforces previous studies highlighting the detrimental effects of mothers relying on children for intimacy and emotional support, which can contribute to the development of depressive symptoms in children.
As we delve deeper into this research, there's an exciting opportunity to explore its implications for future interventions and support systems.
Understanding the nuances of parenting styles can empower parents to foster healthier family dynamics and promote resilience in their children.
If you read this and think… “YEP that’s me, that’s EXACTLY how my mum/dad/caregiver was with me”, I want you to think about these things:
How was my self esteem developed by my family?
What beliefs, insecurities or fears have I taken on as a result of my family upbringing?
Do I struggle with attachment issues in my relationships? (eg. Anxious attachment, avoidant attachment, ambivalent attachment)
Do I have the tools to manage my mental health and live the life I want right now?
If you read this and think… “Eeeek, i’ve got kids and I worry this may be impacting their life”, I want you to think about these things:
First, shed the guilt. You’re human and NOBODY is a perfect parent. We aim for “good enough” parenting around here, with plenty of love and effort involved.
Consider what issues of yours (insecurities, anxiety, stress) may be impacting your ability to implement appropriate boundaries between yourself and your children.
Consider what impact your upbringing has on your parenting styles now - What was modelled to you? Have you tried to parent in extremely different ways to how you were parented? Eg. Giving love and being very close to your child because you didn’t have that.
Let's embark on this journey together to nurture happier, healthier futures for ourselves and our children 🧠💡
Struggling to overcome your family upbringing?
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Or, are you a caregiver who needs child or adolescent counselling and parenting support?
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