According to new research published in the journal Epidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences, harsh discipline by parents on young children puts them at a higher risk of developing long-term mental health problems. Physical or psychological punishment, as well as hostile parenting, can increase the likelihood of children experiencing mental health symptoms. The study followed over 7,500 Irish children at three, five, and nine years old, tracking their mental health symptoms. 10% of the children were discovered to be at high risk for poor mental health. Children who had experienced hostile parenting were significantly more likely to fall into this category. Although many factors influence children’s mental health, the study emphasizes the significance of parenting in a child’s upbringing.

Multiple risk factors influence children’s mental health, including gender, physical health, and socioeconomic status. Mental health professionals, teachers, and other practitioners should be aware of the potential impact of parenting on a child exhibiting symptoms of poor mental health. According to the study, providing additional support to parents of children who are already considered at risk could help prevent these issues from developing.

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Hsin-Yu Huang

UConn KIDS Research Assistant

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