🌟Side Effects of "Harsh Parenting.
Plus, what is "Attachment Parenting" and does it work?
Jed Baker
July 20, 2025
🌟 TRENDING
Harsh Parenting Linked to Poorer Emotional and Social Outcomes in Children
Study Finds Harsh Parenting Linked to Poorer Emotional and Social Outcomes in Children
A recent study published in Development and Psychopathology reveals that harsh parenting during early childhood can have lasting negative effects on emotional and social development. Researchers from the University of Cambridge and University College Dublin tracked over 7,500 Irish children from age 9 months to 9 years, finding that those exposed to harsh parenting—including yelling, physical punishment, and emotional withdrawal—were significantly more likely to exhibit aggression, anxiety, and poor peer relationships by age 9.
“Early childhood is a critical window for emotional development,” said Ioannis Katsantonis, lead author of the study. “Children who experience repeated harsh discipline are more likely to develop maladaptive coping strategies that can carry into adolescence and adulthood.” The study also highlighted that even occasional harsh parenting, when used consistently, was enough to predict worse outcomes over time. These findings stress the importance of warm, responsive, and regulated caregiving during the formative early years.
Have you reflected on how your childhood discipline style shapes your own parenting today?
🌟 PARENTING STYLES
Attachment Parenting: What It Is, Key Practices, Effects, and How It Compares to Other Styles
Attachment parenting is a nurturing, responsive approach that prioritizes emotional closeness, trust, and consistent caregiving—especially in the early years. Popularized by Dr. William Sears and rooted in attachment theory, it encourages practices like babywearing, co-sleeping, and gentle discipline to foster secure parent-child bonds. Research shows children raised with this style often develop stronger emotional intelligence, confidence, and empathy. While it offers lasting developmental benefits, critics note it can be demanding and prone to misinterpretation if practiced rigidly. Ultimately, attachment parenting is less about a checklist and more about fostering connection through attunement and care.
Click below to read more on the subject!
🌟 TLDR
College-Age Kids & Changing Parent Roles - A mom reflects on how parenting shifts when kids leave for college, requiring new boundaries and communication.
Blended Families & Coaching Support - Katherine Schwarzenegger Pratt shares how hiring a stepparenting coach helped her navigate the complexities of a blended family. Shoutout to our own Dr. Shefali who is the coach and you can listen to them talk in her newest episode!
Parenting Through Illness – Teddi Mellencamp describes how battling cancer has made her more present and intentional as a mother.
The Myth of Magical Parenting Moments - A personal story reminds parents it’s okay if not every moment feels special—and that parenting can be messy and hard.
