THE INFLUENCE OF PARENTING APPROACHES ON PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING IN EARLY CHILDHOOD: A DESCRIPTIVE CORRELATIONAL ANALYSIS

This descriptive correlational study examined the relationship between parenting styles and mental health outcomes among preschool-aged children. The study included a sample of 450 children aged 3–5 years and their parents. Data were collected using standardized measures assessing parenting style and child psychological well-being. The findings demonstrated a strong positive association between authoritative parenting and higher levels of psychological well-being among children. In contrast, authoritarian, permissive, and neglectful parenting styles were significantly associated with increased levels of anxiety, behavioral dysregulation, and depressive symptoms. These findings highlight the important role of parenting practices in early childhood mental health. The study also discusses evidence-based intervention strategies aimed at supporting positive parenting practices. The results suggest that parent-focused educational programs and early screening initiatives may contribute significantly to the prevention of mental health problems in early childhood. The findings have important implications for clinical practice, early childhood education, and public health policy, emphasizing the importance of systematic parent education and early preventive interventions.