Developmental Psych EXAM

Anxiety is defined as an emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worry, and
unease, often accompanied by physical sensations such as increased heart rate,

rapid breathing, and restlessness according to APA (2020). Anxiety disorders are
prevalent among children and have significant implications for their well-being and
development (Jones & Smith, 2018). Understanding the factors contributing to
anxiety in children is crucial for effective prevention and intervention strategies. One
criticial factor that has been extensively studied is the role of parents in the
development of anxiety in children. This essay will critically evaluate the influence of
parents on children's anxiety, taking into account various theoretical perspectives
and empirical evidence (Johnson et al., 2020). Through an analysis of parenting
styles, parental modeling, and parental responses to anxiety, this essay aims to shed
light on the complex interplay between parent-child dynamics and childhood anxiety.
Firstly, Wlliam & Brown (2019) indicated that parenting styles are characterized by
specific patterns of behavior and interaction which significantly impact children's
emotional development. Additional research suggests that certain parenting styles
may contribute to the development of anxiety in children. The authoritative parenting
style, characterized by warmth, responsiveness, and consistent discipline, tends to
foster emotional resilience and reduce the risk of anxiety disorders (Johnson et al.,
2018). These parents establish clear expectations and boundaries while also
providing support and understanding. Studies have shown that children raised in
authoritative households are less likely to develop anxiety disorders compared to
those raised in authoritarian or permissive households (Williams & Brown, 2019).
Adding on, authoritarian parenting, characterized by strict rules and harsh discipline,
may create an environment that increases anxiety levels in children. Clark & White
(2016) stated that the lack of emotional support, excessive control, and excessively
high expectations associated with authoritarian parenting can contribute to
heightened anxiety. Studies conducted by Johnson et al (2018) have also indicated
that children raised in authoritarian households are more prone to developing anxiety
symptoms and disorders due to the restrictive and demanding nature of the
parenting style.Similarly, overprotective parenting, usually driven by a desire to
shield children from harm, may unintentionally increase their anxiety levels.
Overprotective parents tend to limit their child's exposure to potentially anxiety-
provoking situations, leading to reduced opportunities for them to learn and develop
effective coping mechanisms (Turner & Johnson, 2022). While protection is
essential, excessive overprotection may hinder a child's ability to develop autonomy
and mastery over anxiety-provoking situations, potentially exacerbating their anxiety
symptoms (Clark & White, 2016).
Furthermore, parents serve as important models for their children, and play a crucial
part in shaping the child’s behavior and beliefs (Davis et al., 2021). Children observe
and internalize their parents' anxious behaviors, acquiring maladaptive coping
strategies and negative cognitions. Studies carried out by Thompson & Jones (2017)
consistently found a strong association between parental anxiety and child anxiety.
When children witness their parents displaying anxious behaviors, such as excessive
worry, avoidance of certain situations, or frequent expressions of fear, they are more
likely to adopt similar behaviors. Additionally, parents may directly communicate their
anxieties to their children, expressing worries or cautionary advice that reinforces a
negative perception of the world for them. This transmission of anxiety from parents
to children can occur through various mechanisms, including observational learning,
verbal expressions, or social learning (Thompson & Jones, 2017). Children learn to
perceive and interpret the world based on their parents' anxious responses, leading
to the internalization of anxiety as a normative response. Furthermore, genetic
factors may contribute to the intergenerational transmission of anxiety, suggesting a
biological vulnerability to anxiety disorders that can be influenced by parental anxiety
(Davis et al., 2021). Therefore, addressing parental anxiety becomes crucial in
interventions targeting childhood anxiety, as it disrupts the cycle of anxiety
transmission and helps create a more supportive and anxiety-free environment for
children.
In addition, parental responses to child anxiety play a pivotal role in shaping
children's emotional regulation and anxiety management skills (Clark & White, 2016).
The way in which parents respond to their child's anxiety can either exacerbate or
alleviate their symptoms. Parents who display overprotective behaviors, such as
excessive reassurance seeking, avoiding anxiety-provoking situations on behalf of
their child, or providing constant accommodation, inadvertently reinforce their child's
anxious behaviors and hinder the development of effective coping strategies (Turner
& Johnson, 2022). On the other hand, parents who provide appropriate support and
encourage problem-solving skills can facilitate resilience and reduce anxiety in their
children (Clark & White, 2016). By offering a secure and understanding environment,
parents can empower their children to confront their fears gradually. This may involve
encouraging them to face anxiety-provoking situations in a controlled and supportive
manner, promoting a sense of accomplishment and increasing self-efficacy.
Additionally, teaching children adaptive coping strategies, such as deep breathing
exercises, positive self-talk, and relaxation techniques, can equip them with effective
tools for managing anxiety (Turner & Johnson, 2022).
Research has also explored the influence of family dynamics on children's anxiety
levels. The quality of the parent-child relationship and the overall family environment
can significantly impact a child's vulnerability to anxiety. For instance, high levels of
family conflict, inconsistent parenting, or a lack of emotional support can contribute
to increased anxiety in children (Jones & Smith, 2018). A study conducted by
Johnson et al. (2020) found that children from families with high levels of conflict and
negative interactions were more likely to exhibit anxiety symptoms. To add on,
cultural and societal factors also play a role in shaping parental behaviors and their
impact on children's anxiety. Different cultural norms and expectations regarding
parenting styles and child rearing can influence the prevalence and manifestation of
anxiety in children. For example, cultures that emphasize collectivism and conformity
may have parenting practices that are more controlling and demanding, potentially
contributing to increased anxiety levels in children (Clark & White, 2016). On the
other hand, cultures that prioritize autonomy and independence may encourage
parenting styles that promote resilience and adaptive coping skills (Williams &
Brown, 2019). Considering cultural diversity is crucial when developing interventions
and support systems for children with anxiety, as a one-size-fits-all approach may
not be effective in addressing the unique needs and experiences of children from
different cultural backgrounds.
In conclusion, the role of parents in the development of anxiety in children was

discussed in the essay, highlighting the complex interplay between parenting
behaviors and childhood anxiety. Parenting styles, parental modeling of anxiety, and
parental responses to child anxiety were examined as key factors influencing
children's anxiety levels. Authoritative parenting, characterized by warmth, support,
and reasonable expectations, promotes emotional resilience and reduces the risk of
anxiety disorders. In contrast, authoritarian and overprotective parenting styles may
contribute to heightened anxiety levels in children. Parental modeling of anxiety
demonstrates that children learn and internalize anxious behaviors and cognitions
from their parents. Addressing parental anxiety becomes crucial in interventions
targeting childhood anxiety, as it disrupts the transmission of anxiety from one
generation to another. Furthermore, parental responses to child anxiety significantly
impact children's emotional regulation and anxiety management skills. Parents who
provide appropriate support, encourage problem-solving, and facilitate gradual
exposure to feared situations promote resilience and reduce anxiety in their children.
By understanding the role of parents in the development of anxiety in children,
professionals can tailor interventions to address the specific needs of both children
and their families, ultimately promoting healthier developmental outcomes.

Developmental Psych EXAM

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Developmental Psych EXAM

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Developmental Psych EXAM

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Anxiety is defined as an emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worry, and

unease, often accompanied by physical sensations such as increased heart rate,

In conclusion, the role of parents in the development of anxiety in children was

You might also like

Pfad - The Proxy pFad of © 2024 Garber Painting. All rights reserved.