Early exposure to harsh parenting during preschool years can have widespread effects on the organization of the entire brain’s communication. Later exposures affect specific brain areas.
A new University of Michigan study published in JAMA Pediatrics highlighted how harsh and warm parenting during early, middle and late childhood impacted brain development during adolescence and how these changes predicted later mental health.
Researchers used a new statistical method to identify whether there are “sensitive periods” in childhood when the brain is particularly susceptible to external influences and whether experiences during these sensitive periods would predict mental health during a stressful period like the COVID-19 pandemic. They also used advanced brain imaging techniques to explore how information flows through the developing brain.
A recent study highlights the profound impact parenting styles have on a child’s brain development and mental health. Researchers found that positive parenting approaches, characterized by warmth, consistency, and responsiveness, significantly contribute to healthier emotional and cognitive outcomes in children. Conversely, harsh or neglectful parenting can lead to heightened risks of anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues later in life.
The study emphasizes the importance of nurturing environments during formative years, as these influence neural pathways responsible for stress regulation and emotional resilience. It also calls for increased support for parents, including educational programs and mental health resources, to ensure that children have the best possible start in life.
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Study Reveals the Impact of Parenting on Child’s Brain Development and Mental Health https://t.co/btBlP5nWFJ #rehabnearme 855-339-1112
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