A study from the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) has unveiled the significant impact of poor parenting on the mental health of Australian children.
According to the research, unsupportive, inconsistent, and angry parenting styles contribute to nearly 52% of socioeconomic inequalities in the mental health of young Australians.
UniSQ PhD Candidate Nirmal Gautam (left) and Professor Rasheda Khanam found poor parenting to be the most significant factor leading children to develop mental health difficulties. Source: University of Southern Queensland
Using data from the Longitudinal Survey of Australian Children (LSAC), UniSQ PhD Candidate Nirmal Gautam and Professor Rasheda Khanam identified poor parenting as the primary factor leading to mental health challenges in children and adolescents.
The study underscores the role of low socioeconomic status and conflict-ridden parental relationships in exacerbating these issues.
Professor Khanam said the study highlighted the surprising extent of poor parenting’s impact.
“While we expected a correlation between parenting styles and the mental wellbeing of young Australians, the magnitude of the impact was indeed surprising,” she said.
“This study underscores the importance of parenting styles and parent relationships as significant predictors of mental health outcomes in children and adolescents.”
The research highlights the need for effective parenting strategies, such as consistent monitoring, praising, and rewarding, which can significantly reduce psychological problems in children.
Professor Khanam stressed the importance of comprehensive support systems and policies to address mental health inequalities.
“To address these significant mental health inequalities in Australian children, we need programs that provide equitable access to mental health services,” she said.
“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.”
