A Qualitative Insight into Parental Styles and Their Outcomes: A Content Analysis Study

Abstract

Background:The infancy and early childhood stages are pivotal in human development, marked by significant developmental milestones and the formation of personality traits. Parenting style plays a central role in shaping children's lives and their cognitive and emotional growth. This research endeavor is directed towards providing a comprehensive overview of the prevailing trends in parenting styles research while identifying the specific domains that have been the subject of scholarly investigation to date. The outcomes of this study are anticipated to offer valuable insights into the prevailing perspectives and understandings within the domain of parenting styles.

Methods: This study conducted an analysis of empirical research and examined prevailing trends in parenting as documented in scientific journals within the Scopus database for the period spanning 2013 to 2017. A rigorous content analysis was undertaken to explore research studies specifically related to parenting styles. After a thorough review of content and research methodologies, a total of 220 articles were identified as aligning with the research objectives of this study. The primary purpose of this analysis was to pinpoint gaps within the existing literature, which will inform the direction of our future research endeavors.

Results: The results indicated a substantial number of published articles addressing parenting styles, reflecting the importance of these styles in shaping an individual's character and temperament. However, there has been limited exploration of the intricate factors contributing to both effective and ineffective parenting styles. Much of the research has primarily focused on the dynamics between parents and their children, neglecting to delve into the viewpoints of parents themselves and the life experiences that have impacted and molded them.

Conclusions: The conclusions underscore the necessity of investigating the factors that influence parents' personalities and recommend the development of interventions aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of parenting. These efforts, in turn, are expected to contribute to the psychosocial well-being and prosperity of individuals.