Parental guidance necessary: A qualitative study on the impacts of parenting styles

This thesis examines the long-term effects of parenting styles and attachment experiences on adult psychological well-being, relational competence, academic aspirations, and self-concept. Through qualitative analysis of semi-structured interviews with three participants from the Chattanooga, Tennessee area, the study investigates how family dynamics—framed by Baumrind’s parenting models and Bowlby’s attachment theory—shape developmental trajectories across the lifespan. Findings indicate that authoritative parenting fosters resilience, empathy, and secure attachments, while authoritarian and avoidant parenting styles often lead to relational hesitancy and diminished self-worth. Emphasizing the value of responsive, balanced parenting, this study underscores its role in promoting emotional security and adaptive coping, with meaningful implications for clinical and educational interventions aimed at building healthier family dynamics. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the intergenerational impact of parenting approaches, supporting advancements in family therapy and developmental psychology.