Family, parents, children - basic conditions for personality development - Psychotherapy | Online ®

A family enjoys a tranquil moment together in a lush green field, capturing a serene portrait of parents and their young children under a clear sky.

Family, parents, children - basic conditions for personality development

Man is the product of the interaction between biological and environmental factors, which accompany him from the prenatal period and continue to influence him throughout his life. Personality formation begins with the construction of the initial self-image and continues with the development of identities, values, and self-esteem. Although personality is mainly formed in early childhood, it can undergo many changes during adulthood.

The role of mother and father in child development

The mother is the first figure that exerts both biological and psychological influence on the child. It is key to building the emotional intelligence and inner world of the little person. The father, in turn, contributes models for dealing with the outside world and building confidence.

The relationship between parents plays a central role in building a child's personality. They are the first pattern of human relationships that the child observes and perceives as the basis for social skills and values. Whether it is openness and mutual respect or conflict and aggression, these relationships leave a lasting impression on the child's psyche.

Conflicts in the family - a threat or an opportunity

Conflicts are not always a negative factor. If parents manage to solve them constructively, with respect for each other's personality, they can teach the child a valuable lesson about dealing with differences in society. Conversely, conflicts that involve aggression, humiliation, or lack of respect can lead to anxiety, low self-esteem, and interpersonal problems.

The role of parenting style

Parenting style is a major factor in the development of a child's personality. Here's how the different approaches affect the child:

Authoritarian style: Strict control and high demands suppress independence and often lead to anxiety or depression.

Neglecting style: Lack of warmth and guidance leaves the child without support, which can lead to social isolation.

Protective style: Limiting independence makes the child dependent and unable to cope with stressful situations.

Authoritative style: A balance between love and discipline provides a solid foundation for development. This style encourages independence and sets clear boundaries, which helps the child's emotional resilience.

Challenges of modern parenting

Modern parents often place children at the center of family life, which sometimes leads to overprotection and idealization. This creates a risk of forming egocentrism and inability to cope with difficulties. Instead, mindful parenting, which respects a child's needs but also allows him to face challenges, can support his healthy development. As Madeleine Algaffari notes, parents often make mistakes such as confusing love with approval or a lack of respect for the child: "The first is never yes parents are not in doubt - to think that they are always right in their approaches. The second mistake is not distinguishing between love and approval. An act or a word may not be approved, but not the child himself. A child is loved and should always feel loved. Otherwise, over time, he will confuse approval with love, and in order to get approval, he may even sacrifice his love for himself. The third major mistake is not distinguishing between love and respect. Often love is not in doubt, but respect for the child is lacking. Respect is shown in the way you talk to him, the search for his opinion, the acceptance of his right to choose and make decisions. So children grow up with good self-esteem and more chance for future happiness.” (Algaffari M."...And they lived happily ever after...")

Being aware of these mistakes and working to avoid them can help create an environment where children grow up with healthy self-esteem and self-confidence.

A family shares a warm, loving moment together in a sunlit meadow.

The family is the main factor in the construction of the personality. Parental relationships, parenting style and emotional support are key to children's development. While there is no one-size-fits-all model for parenting, striving to create a stable and supportive environment can give children the skills they need to cope with life's challenges and

full participation in society.

Psychotherapy | Online ®