In the journey of adulthood, we often grapple with the guilt that accompanies our mistakes. However, for some individuals, shedding this guilt can be a formidable task. It can linger, transforming into a perpetual sense of sin, an unforgivable transgression etched deep within. This persistent state of self-criticism and negative emotions may find its roots in our upbringing, often referred to as “critical parenting.”

Critical parenting, as defined by Advantage Mental Health Center, is a parenting style characterized by its critical and harsh demeanor. When parents or caregivers lean towards criticism and belittlement rather than offering praise and encouragement, it culminates in this critical parenting style. Simultaneously, such parents employ a communication style that conditions their love (Advantage Mental Health Center, 2023).

Delving into the sources of pressure that lead to children developing self-confidence issues, journalist, and author Jennifer Breheny, in collaboration with the Harvard Graduate School of Education, conducted a study on Critical Parenting. This research reveals that a parent’s continual criticism of their child can lead to the creation of a false self in children. Children subjected to relentless criticism learn to conceal their true selves to cope with the emotional turmoil, shaping themselves into the person their parents desire. Consequently, adopting this artificial persona becomes their strategy for obtaining the love and support vital for their survival. Tragically, this false self can evolve into a merciless inner voice in adulthood, resulting in the erosion of self-confidence and self-esteem (Wallace, 2023).

”If our aspiration is to raise children who are not only successful and happy but also psychologically resilient, we must create an environment where they can embrace mistakes without fear of failure ” said teacher Bahar from Eureka School.

Rather than tethering love to conditional sentences like “Why can’t you be more like your sibling?” or “I expect better performance from you this term,” we can empower children by using phrases like “I love you, but I disagree with this particular action.”

A comprehensive study carried out at the University of Notre Dame has shed light on the profound and lasting effects of parental caregiving styles on the emotional well-being and self-esteem of children as they transition into adulthood. This research underscores the pivotal role that parents play in shaping their children’s psychological development (Narvaez, 2019).

The study’s findings are particularly compelling when it comes to contrasting the effects of nurturing parents with those who adopt a more critical approach. Children who experienced the warmth, affection, and support of loving parents throughout their formative years were found to have significantly lower anxiety levels in adulthood compared to their counterparts raised by critical parents.

The impact of nurturing parenting extended beyond just anxiety levels. Individuals raised in nurturing environments also exhibited markedly higher levels of self-confidence and self-esteem in their adult lives. These findings highlight the long-term consequences of the emotional atmosphere within the family home during a child’s upbringing.

Nurturing parents, characterized by their empathy, emotional availability, and positive reinforcement, creates a safe and supportive environment in which children can develop a strong sense of self-worth and resilience. This, in turn, equips them with the tools to navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence and optimism.

In contrast, critical parenting, which often involves constant judgment, negativity, and a lack of emotional support, can foster feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt in children. These negative experiences can persist into adulthood, contributing to higher anxiety levels and diminished self-esteem.

In conclusion, the way we parent can significantly shape our children’s emotional development. By fostering an environment of love, acceptance, and encouragement, we can pave the path for resilient, self-assured, and content individuals in the future.