Date
8-21-2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Human Services: Emphasis in Trauma, Resilience, & Self-Care Strategies
Department
Human Services
First Advisor
Jerrod Brown
Second Advisor
Ryan Chukuske
Abstract
As parents are a child’s first teachers, high-quality information about parenting techniques is vital. Parents should have the opportunity to make informed, evidence-based decisions about the best parenting styles for each child through an understanding of appropriate developmental implications. Many parents are not aware of the adverse effects some techniques can have, even if outcomes appear positive on the surface. This research paper aimed to illustrate how harsh parenting methods can negatively impact a child’s behavior. To accomplish this, a collection of peer-reviewed articles was thoroughly reviewed. Following an introduction to the existing knowledge, 18 articles were presented. The articles were found through searches in the Concordia University, St. Paul digital library collections. Various subtopics were addressed, ranging from direct effects to the cyclical nature of certain behaviors. Variables included mediators of parenting, such as mental health aspects, and types of harsh parenting (emotional or physical). Outcomes of these variables in responses from children fell into two broad categories: internalizing behaviors and externalizing behaviors. Neurological associations were also included. Most of the studies examined associated externalizing behaviors. Overall conclusions from the articles’ findings were synthesized, and appropriate implications and recommendations were discussed. There was a general agreement that harsh parenting does, in fact, negatively impact children’s behavior. These findings have numerous applications for parents, children, and human service professionals (HSPs) working with them. Taking steps toward healthier parenting while acknowledging the needs of every person involved will benefit society for generations to come.