Study reveals impact of bad parenting on kids’ mental health

A University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) study has revealed the true impact of bad parenting on Australian children.

Poor parenting styles – including unsupportive, inconsistent and angry approaches to parenting – contribute to almost 52% of socioeconomic inequalities in mental health status among Australian children, according to research published this year.

Using comprehensive data from the Longitudinal Survey of Australian Children (LSAC), UniSQ PhD Candidate Nirmal Gautam and Professor Rasheda Khanam found poor parenting to be the single most important factor leading children and adolescents to develop mental health difficulties.

The research highlighted that low socioeconomic status contributed to mental health disparities and confirmed the detrimental effects of conflict-ridden parental relationships on the emotional and behavioural development of children.

Mr Gautam and Professor Khanam said that while the correlation between parenting styles and the mental wellbeing of young Australians was expected, the extent of the impact of poor parenting was surprising.

“This study underscores the importance of parenting styles and parent relationships as significant predictors of mental health outcomes in children and adolescents,” they said.

“Consistently implementing effective parenting strategies, such as monitoring, praising, and rewarding, significantly reduces the risk of psychological problems in children and adolescents.

“To address these significant mental health inequalities in Australian children, we need programs that provide equitable access to mental health services.

“We need stronger family and community support and counselling services, and improved policies that focus on evidence-based actions, especially for those who are disadvantaged.”

For more information on the study, read the published paper online.