Examining the impact of maternal and paternal parenting styles on maladaptive schemas in adults with depression: mediating role of self-efficacy

Purpose This study aimed to examine how different parenting styles, (maternal and paternal) influence the development of maladaptive schemas in adults with depression. Furthermore, the study intends to explore the mediating role of self-efficacy in the relationship between parenting styles and the development of maladaptive schemas. Design/methodology/approach The study’s sample of adults aged 19–35, living in the metropolitan cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, Pakistan. The screening process involved the utilization the Urdu version of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-42). Parenting styles were assessed using the Parental Authority Questionnaire, a widely recognized tool that assessing Authoritative, Authoritarian, and Submissive styles. In addition, an Urdu translated version of Schema Mode Inventory was used for emotional and cognitive patterns. Participant’s self-efficacy was assessed using Generalized Self-Efficacy Scale. Findings The results revealed that all three paternal parenting styles (authoritative, authoritarian and permissive) significantly impact the development of maladaptive schemas. Similarly, authoritative and authoritarian maternal parenting styles had a significant positive impact on maladaptive schemas, while permissive maternal parenting had a slightly positive impact. Additionally, the study found no significant correlation between self-efficacy and maladaptive schemas. Originality/value The current study highlighted the impact of parental involvement both paternal and maternal on the development of maladaptive schema mode among adults with depression with specific focus on the mediating role of self-efficacy. This study tries to enhance the understanding mechanism using the parenting styles contribution in adult mental health.