http://dx.doi.org/10.24016/2024.v10.427
ORIGINAL ARTICLE
The impact of harmonious parent-child relationships on the development
of psychological well-being and personality resilience: a qualitative study in
healthcare professionals
El impacto de las relaciones armoniosas entre padres e hijos en el
desarrollo del bienestar psicológico y la resiliencia de la personalidad: Un
estudio cualitativo en profesionales de la salud
Liana Spytska1
1 Department of
Psychology and Pedagogy, Kyiv International University, Kyiv, Ukraine.
* Correspondence: liaspytska@ukr.net
Received: August 08, 2024 | Revised: September 09, 2024 |
Accepted: November 15, 2024 | Published Online: December 31, 2024
CITE IT AS:
Spytska, L.
(2024). The impact of harmonious parent-child relationships on the development
of psychological well-being and personality resilience: A qualitative study in
healthcare professionals. Interacciones, 10,
e427. http://dx.doi.org/10.24016/2024.v10.427
ABSTRACT
Introduction: The relationship between parents and
children is the foundation of family life, which determines the mental and
emotional well-being of each family member. Therefore, understanding the impact
of harmonious relationships on personal development is important and relevant
to society, as it can have far-reaching consequences for the quality of life. Objective:
The purpose of this study was to investigate how harmonious relationships
between parents and children affect the child’s mental health, specifically from
the perspective of healthcare workers. Method: Qualitative and
quantitative methods, including systematization, synthesis, analysis, and
interviews, were employed in the study. Data were collected through interviews
with parents and children, as well as through an analysis of scientific
literature and clinical cases. Result: It was found that close
relationships between parents and children play a key role in the development
of adolescents’ self-esteem. The quality of these relationships is determined
by mutual understanding, support, and trust. Interaction with parents
contributes to the psychological growth and positive self-image of children. It
was also found that having free time with parents contributes to a more
profound emotional connection and understanding. The study confirmed the
importance of harmonious parent-child relationships for the mental well-being
of children. The results of an interview with 100 mental health professionals
confirmed the effectiveness of strategies such as emotional support, joint
activities, setting clear boundaries, and others in establishing positive
relationships between parents and children. The study found that family
therapy, play therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and parental
psychological education are effective methods for stimulating harmonious
relationships between parents and children. Conclusion: These approaches
promote the child’s mental well-being and contribute to a better understanding
of their needs and emotions. The findings can be used to develop and implement
intervention and support programmes for parents to improve their relationships
with their children.
Keywords: Upbringing, Emotional
state, Adolescence, Self-esteem, Family.
RESUMEN
Introducción: La relación entre padres e hijos es la
base de la vida familiar, que determina el bienestar mental y emocional de cada
miembro de la familia. Por lo tanto, comprender el impacto de las relaciones
armoniosas en el desarrollo personal es importante y relevante para la
sociedad, ya que puede tener consecuencias de gran alcance para la calidad de
vida. Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio fue investigar cómo las
relaciones armoniosas entre padres e hijos afectan la salud mental del niño,
específicamente desde la perspectiva de los trabajadores de la salud. Método:
Se emplearon métodos cualitativos y cuantitativos, que incluyeron
sistematización, síntesis, análisis y entrevistas. Los datos se recopilaron a
través de entrevistas a padres e hijos, así como a través del análisis de
literatura científica y casos clínicos. Resultado: Se encontró que las
relaciones estrechas entre padres e hijos juegan un papel clave en el
desarrollo de la autoestima de los adolescentes. La calidad de estas relaciones
está determinada por la comprensión mutua, el apoyo y la confianza. La
interacción con los padres contribuye al crecimiento psicológico y la
autoimagen positiva de los niños. También se encontró que tener tiempo libre
con los padres contribuye a una conexión y comprensión emocional más profunda.
El estudio confirmó la importancia de las relaciones armoniosas entre padres e
hijos para el bienestar mental de los niños. Los resultados de una entrevista a
100 profesionales de la salud mental confirmaron la eficacia de estrategias
como el apoyo emocional, las actividades conjuntas, el establecimiento de
límites claros y otras para establecer relaciones positivas entre padres e
hijos. El estudio encontró que la terapia familiar, la terapia de juego, la
terapia cognitivo-conductual (TCC) y la educación psicológica parental son
métodos eficaces para estimular relaciones armoniosas entre padres e hijos. Conclusión:
Estos enfoques promueven el bienestar mental del niño y contribuyen a una mejor
comprensión de sus necesidades y emociones. Los hallazgos pueden usarse para
desarrollar e implementar programas de intervención y apoyo para que los padres
mejoren sus relaciones con sus hijos.
Palabras claves: Crianza, Estado emocional, Adolescencia, Autoestima,
Familia.
INTRODUCTION
In today’s world, where many families face various difficulties, such as
stress, conflicts between parents and other challenges, it is important to
consider the impact of the family environment on a child’s mental development.
The study of harmonious relationships between children and parents allows
identifying the key factors contributing to the psychological well-being of a
child. For instance, a child who grows up in an atmosphere of mutual
understanding, support, and love has more opportunities to develop positive
self-esteem and stable mental development. The findings of such studies can
serve as a basis for developing programmes and interventions aimed at improving
the quality of family relationships and ensuring the psychological well-being
of all family members. The focus on developing a positive family environment is
essential to creating favourable conditions for raising a happy and emotionally
stable child.
The problem of the study is the complex nature of a child’s mental
health, which is reflected in various aspects that should be considered in the
context of its impact on the overall development of the individual. Such
components as emotional stability, the ability to socially adapt, self-esteem
require special attention. These aspects interact with each other and influence
various areas of a child’s life, including learning, social relationships,
development of personal resources, and self-knowledge. For a more profound
understanding of the topic, it is necessary to consider the relationship
between these aspects and their impact on the child’s mental health
as a whole.
According to Dembitska and Girnyak
(2022), child-parent relationships are considered a key determinant of mental
development and the process of child socialisation. Scientists consider them
through various parameters, including the nature of the emotional bond between
parent and child, the motives for parenting, the manifestation of parental
leadership, the way conflict situations are resolved, the support of child
autonomy, social control, and the degree of stability of upbringing in the
family environment. Scientists argue that the motives of upbringing and
parenting, the manifestation of parental leadership, the way of resolving
conflict situations, and support for the child’s autonomy influence the
development of child-parent relationships.
Following Bulhakova and Azarkina
(2020), the emergence of different types of parental relationships has a
complex nature, which is determined by many factors. The researchers note that
these relationships have a significant impact not only on the child’s mental
development, but also on their behaviour and attitudes in adulthood. Scientists
are convinced that the family environment plays an important role in the
development of a personality, as it shapes the values and attitudes of a child.
Positive experiences in the family stay with a person throughout their life,
providing support in the most difficult moments and contributing to their
development. The researchers are convinced that parents, while upbringing their
children, are also upbringing themselves. The parenting model chosen by parents
plays a crucial role in shaping the relationship with their child. For
instance, an authoritarian parenting style can lead to feelings of insecurity
and dependence in a child. Scientists note that the balance between attentive
attitude and assistance provided by parents is the key to the development of an
independent and emotionally healthy personality.
River et al. (2022) emphasises the significance of the quality of
parent-child relationships for the development and further functioning of
romantic relationships. They note that attachment security and the quality of
parent-child interaction can have an analogous impact on the development and
health of dyadic romantic relationships. Researchers are convinced that having
a stable and positive attitude in parent-child relationships helps to adapt in
romantic relationships and interaction between partners.
According to Secheiko (2022), the father’s
impartiality and detachment in communication, as well as his autonomous
position, can contribute to the development of the child’s value of
self-sufficiency and independence by creating a certain distance in interaction
with others. According to the researcher, this may play a role as a
psychological basis for the development of inflated self-esteem, which is a
defence mechanism to avoid losing one’s autonomy in emotionally close contacts.
On the other hand, according to the researcher, the mother’s emotional
involvement, especially if she demonstrates adequate autonomy and separation
for the child’s age, can have a positive impact on self-image and a sense of
inner strength, increasing the awareness of one’s value as an independent
person. A mother’s positive interest in her child and the establishment of a
friendly, affectionate, loving, and emotionally warm relationship with them can
help to build self-confidence, a sense of unconditional value, independence, and
the ability to rely on one’s own strength in difficult life situations.
Sychynska (2022)
examines the impact of child-parent relationships on adolescents’ psychological
resilience and identifies several key structural components that determine this
impact. One of the key components, according to the scientist, is the value and
motivational aspect, which covers the importance that each family member
attaches to relationships, as well as the desire to create healthy and
harmonious relationships. Following the researcher, it is also important for
parents to use the best methods of upbringing and communication with
adolescents. In the study, the researcher notes the cognitive-behavioural
aspect, which involves understanding and using best methods of education and
adaptation to the individual needs of adolescents. It is important that parents
are able to adjust their behaviour and parenting style
to the specific features of each child, contributing to their psychological
stability and development.
Contemporary families face numerous challenges, such as stress,
conflicts between parents, and other issues that can negatively impact
children's mental development. Despite the importance of harmonious
parent-child relationships for a child's psychological well-being, there are
significant gaps in the literature regarding specific aspects. Current research
confirms that parent-child relationships are a key factor in mental development
and socialization of children. However, there is insufficient attention to
specific strategies and methods that can positively influence these
relationships. The literature often focuses on general parameters such as the
emotional bond between parents and children, parenting motivations, expressions
of parental leadership, conflict resolution, support for child autonomy, social
control, and the stability of upbringing. However, it lacks detailed
exploration of how these factors interact and which specific mechanisms or
strategies may be most effective. This study aims to fill these gaps by
providing a detailed analysis of specific aspects of harmonious relationships,
such as identifying and evaluating different strategies for supporting the
emotional bond between parents and children. Additionally, it emphasizes analyzing the impact of the quality of shared time on the
development of emotional closeness and mutual understanding.
In this study, the author has a specific hypothesis, which is that
harmonious relations between parents and children, characterized by a high
level of emotional support, mutual understanding and trust, have a positive
effect on the mental health of children. In particular, it
is assumed that such relationships contribute to the development of positive
self-esteem and emotional stability in children. The survey of healthcare
professionals is important for researching the formation of harmonious
relationships between parents and children, because these specialists have
considerable practical experience in working with children and their families.
They observe and evaluate the dynamics of family relationships in the process
of treatment and counseling, which allows them to
provide valuable data on the impact of family relationships on the mental
health of children. Health professionals can provide information on the
effectiveness of various interventions and therapies designed to improve family
relationships and point to gaps in existing approaches.
It is necessary to conduct a more in-depth investigation of the specific
features of the relationship between parents and children and their impact on
the development of the child’s psyche, to study the specifics of interaction
between parents and children in greater detail to determine their impact on the
development of a mentally healthy personality. The purpose of this study was to
examine and cover the impact of harmonious relationships between parents and
children on the child’s mental well-being.
METHODS
Qualitative approach and research paradigm
We use a qualitative research design with a
phenomenological approach to explore health professionals' experiences and
perceptions concerning parent-child relationships. Semi-structured interviews
were the primary data collection method, enabling an in-depth examination of
how these professionals perceive and describe the influence of such
relationships on children's mental development. To assess the impact of
harmonious parent-child interactions on the formation of a mentally healthy
personality, the study integrated different qualitative methods, including
systematization, synthesis, analysis, and qualitative interviews.
Context
The study was conducted in the city of Almaty,
Kazakhstan, where the population evaluated consisted of health professionals
specializing in child psychiatry, psychology, and pediatrics.
Health workers participating in the study work in both public clinics and
private health facilities, providing diverse experiences and perspectives
regarding their work with families and children. Kazakhstan is a middle-income
country (LMIC) where the salary level of health workers depends on the type of
institution: public sector doctors are generally paid less than those working
in the private sector. In the public healthcare system, physicians often face
heavy workloads due to healthcare personnel shortages and limited resources. At
the same time, working conditions in the private sector are generally better,
including lighter workloads and higher salaries.
Participants work in an environment where government
standards mainly regulate the provision of medical services. Still, there is
access to private practice, which creates additional opportunities for
providing individual services. The health system of Kazakhstan is at the stage
of reform, which is meant to improve the quality of health care. This study is
particularly relevant in the local context, especially in matters of the mental
health of children and adolescents.
Participants and sampling strategy
The interviews covered mental health professionals
aged 24 to 55, including 65 women (35 of them were psychologists, 23 were
psychotherapists, 7 were psychiatrists) and 35 men (11 of them were
psychologists, 8 were psychotherapists, 16 were psychiatrists). The interview
was conducted in February 2024. The participants in the study were selected
based on convenience and accessibility, which allowed for the quick recruitment
of professionals working with pediatric patients in
Almaty, Kazakhstan. The selection of participants was not random; rather, the
recruitment was based on their experience working with children and families in
the field of mental health. The total number of participants was determined
using the principle of theoretical saturation. This means that data collection
stopped when new information no longer significantly altered the findings or
expanded the understanding of the research topics. After interviewing 100
professionals, it became evident that the data collected provided sufficient diversity
of opinions and experience for a well-founded analysis.
In terms of representativeness, the sample included a
wide range of specialists from different age groups (24-55 years), with varying
levels of experience and specialization. The participants included
psychologists, psychotherapists, and psychiatrists, which enabled a
multifaceted perspective on the influence of parent-child relationships on
children's mental development. To gather the most comprehensive information,
professionals were recruited from both public and private healthcare
institutions, which increased the variability of professional viewpoints. Most
of the participants were from Kazakhstan, but the sample also included
healthcare professionals from neighboring countries,
such as Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, who either work in Kazakhstan or have
significant experience working with patients in the country.
Data collection methods and instruments
The interviews utilized semi-structured tools that
included both standardized and open-ended questions. This approach provided
flexibility during the interviews, allowing for the collection of both
quantitative and qualitative data. The interview guide was designed to cover
key areas related to parent-child relationships, including emotional support,
the level of parental control, the impact of shared time, and the role of the
family environment in the child's mental development. The questions varied in
format: some were clearly structured to elicit specific answers, while others
were open-ended, allowing participants to share their professional experiences
and insights in greater depth. The questions also aimed to explore how
professionals assess the importance of harmonious relationships for children's
mental health and which interventions they consider most effective in
supporting positive interactions between parents and children. The average
duration of each interview was approximately 50 minutes, giving participants
enough time to thoroughly address the topics discussed.
The interviews were conducted to collect information
from mental health professionals (psychologists, psychotherapists,
psychiatrists) on the impact of parent-child interaction on children's mental
development. The interviews focused on key topics such as emotional support,
level of control, the impact of time spent together, and other important
aspects of family relationships. Preparations for the interviews included
identifying the target group, which consisted of professionals working with
families and children, and formulating questions. A pilot interview was
conducted to adjust the questions and data collection methods. During the data
collection process, the purpose of the study was explained to the participants
and the confidentiality of their answers was ensured. The interviews were
conducted in a relaxed atmosphere that facilitated open discussion and lasted
from 30 to 60 minutes. All answers were recorded (audio or written) for the
accuracy and reproducibility of the study.
To analyze the data, a thematic method was used to identify the main themes and patterns in the participants' responses.
The analysis process included coding the responses into main categories (e.g.,
emotional support, level of control, time spent together), which allowed for a
clear understanding of what factors are important for children's mental
development.
The main themes of the interviews included emotional
support, level of control, and the impact of time spent together. Participants
were asked how they assessed the role of emotional support in the development
of a child's self-perception, how excessive control can affect the mental
health of children, particularly boys, and how joint activities with parents
positively affect the development of emotional closeness.
Data processing and data analysis
During the analysis of the interviews, thematic
analysis was used. This approach made it possible to identify and systematize
the main themes and regularities in the responses of the participants. The
thematic analysis helped to highlight key aspects related to parent-child
relationships, including emotional support, level of control, impact of time
spent together, and other important factors mentioned by professionals. The use of the synthesis method in the study allowed for a
detailed analysis of various aspects of the relationship between parents and
children. This method helped to examine the available data and consider it
from different perspectives to establish connections between them. The
synthesis revealed the specific features of close relationships between parents
and children and their role in the development of adolescents’ self-esteem. A
detailed study of this aspect, using the synthesis method, helped to identify
the quality of these relationships, which is determined by the level of mutual
understanding, support, and trust between parents and children. The application
of the synthesis method also confirmed the aspects of interaction with parents
and their impact on children’s psychological growth and positive
self-perception. By considering various situations and factors using the
synthesis method, the study identified the specific features of free time spent
with parents and its impact on the development of a more profound emotional
connection and mutual understanding between them.
The systematisation method was used to formulate
conclusions based on the research findings and contributed to the formulation
of general principles of interaction between parents and children. This method
made it possible to collect, systematise, and summarise a large amount of
information obtained by analysing various aspects of family relationships. The
systematisation revealed the nuances of the differences in the application of
these approaches and their focus on creating a favourable environment for the
development of healthy and positive relationships between parents and children.
Thus, the systematisation method helped to conclude that these methods are
tools to facilitate not only conflict resolution and improved communication
between parents and children, but also a more profound understanding of their
needs and emotions.
The analysis also revealed the importance of balancing
control and autonomy in the relationship between parents and children. The
analysis of different parenting and interaction strategies showed the
consequences of excessive parental control, which can have a negative impact on
the development of children, especially sons. Thus, the method of analysis was
used to determine the consequences of the nature of the relationship between
parents and children and its importance for the psychological well-being of children.
An analysis of various aspects of these relationships helped to identify the
key factors that affect their quality and efficiency. This method offered a
deeper insight into the processes that take place in the interaction between
parents and children.
Interviews proved to be a key research tool, as they
helped to gather a wide range of opinions and experiences from different mental
health professionals. This made it possible to obtain an objective assessment
of the situation and establish general trends, which helped to choose the
suitable direction for further research and development of recommendations.
Within the framework of this study, interviews were conducted with 100 mental
health professionals.
Ethics topics
This
study adhered to ethical guidelines for research involving human
participants. All participants provided written informed consent prior to their
involvement in the study. The research protocol was reviewed and approved by
the Ethics Committee of Kyiv International University. Participants were
informed about the purpose of the study, the nature of their participation, and
their right to withdraw at any time without consequences. In cases where
interviews were recorded, participants explicitly consented to the audio or
video recording of the interviews. All data was handled in accordance with
ethical standards to ensure confidentiality and privacy.
Study follows the
Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research, which were applied to ensure the
comprehensive and transparent reporting of the qualitative aspects of the
study. These standards facilitate a better understanding of the methodology,
promote rigor, and enhance the credibility of qualitative research findings.
RESULTS
Mental Health in Childhood and Its
Long-Term Impact
The results of the study indicate that
mental health during childhood is a key factor for further development and
successful functioning in adulthood. Childhood is a
critical period for developing social skills, emotional resilience, and the
ability to adapt to changes in the environment (Mattanah et al., 2011). Thematic analysis
revealed that mental health at this age lays the foundation for future
relationships with others and the ability to respond to stressful situations.
Participants emphasized that a child growing up in a supportive psychological
environment receives positive impressions of themselves and their capabilities.
This contributes to the development of positive self-esteem and a stable sense
of self, which are essential for future social and professional adaptation. The
findings also showed that negative experiences and stress during childhood can
significantly impact future mental health. Respondents indicated that creating
a safe and supportive environment for children can help prevent mental health
disorders such as depression, anxiety, or psychosomatic illnesses. They noted
that children with good mental health are better equipped to handle life’s
challenges, including learning, interpersonal relationships, and personal skill
development. The study highlighted that mental health in childhood is not only
crucial during that stage but also has long-lasting effects on life success and
satisfaction. Investing in children's psychological resilience and emotional
development was seen as a step toward creating strong, healthy, and successful
citizens. Respondents agreed that close relationships between parents and
children remain a key element in shaping adolescents' self-esteem. The results
suggested that adolescents' psychological resilience and self-confidence often
depend on the quality of these relationships. Relationships characterized by
mutual understanding, support, and trust were noted as critical for
adolescents' psychological growth and positive self-perception. Participants
also emphasized that children who feel that their thoughts and feelings are
valued by their parents tend to develop self-confidence and problem-solving
skills. Parental support and positive attitudes were reported to significantly
influence the development of an adolescent’s self-identity, fostering
self-determination and stability. While recognizing that interactions with
parents can vary based on cultural, social, and individual family
characteristics, the findings reinforced the crucial role parents play in shaping
the mental state of adolescents.
Interaction between parents and children
contributes to greater child development than parental control and care alone.
According to scientific research, interaction between parents and children is
of great importance for the psychological and social development of a child.
The time spent by parents with their children plays a significant and
well-defined role in establishing and maintaining the relationship between
them. Such mutual time can help improve emotional connection, increase trust,
and develop mutual understanding between parents and children (Ngai et al.,
2013). Time spent by a parent with a child has a significant positive impact on
the quality of communication between them. It is especially effective when a
parent finds enough time to be actively involved in the child’s life. Such
active involvement helps to strengthen parent-child bonds and improves mutual
understanding between parent and child.
Challenges in Time Management and Parental
Control
The results of the study indicated that
the relationship between parents and children is essential for building healthy
family dynamics, which are crucial for a child's development and ability to
thrive. Participants emphasized that the healthy development of children
largely depends on close relationships with trusted adults, with parenting
playing a key role in this process. Respondents noted that a strong
parent-child bond is foundational for a child's emotional and social growth.
However, thematic analysis revealed that the benefits of parent-child
relationships are not solely based on biological ties but extend beyond that,
involving the nurturing and emotional support parents provide. The study
participants suggested that a child's growing sense of autonomy can challenge
parents' ability to shape their children's values, as highlighted by one
expert: "Children's increasing desire for independence often limits the
extent to which parents can directly influence their values."
Furthermore, the results showed that
parents do not inherently have the right to pass on material wealth or values
to their children, challenging traditional views on family roles. This reflects
the idea that while family values underscore the importance of the family as a
social institution, they can also contribute to maintaining social inequality.
Respondents noted that, in many cases, both children (especially adolescents)
and parents report differing levels of control over time, often influenced by
external and internal demands. As one participant observed, "Time
management in families is a delicate balance that affects both individual
development and parent-child dynamics." These choices around time
allocation were seen as part of a dialogical interaction model, contributing to
tensions and contradictions within family relationships.
The study highlighted that increased
levels of parental psychological control are associated with negative outcomes
for children, particularly sons. Experts noted that "Authoritarian
parenting styles tend to lead to more behavioral
issues in boys compared to girls." Additionally, increased father
involvement was shown to improve the quality of sibling relationships,
emphasizing the positive impact of an active father figure. Other factors
influencing child development risks include the father's educational level and
the number of children in the family. A father's education and the family
structure play a significant role in shaping children's development and social behavior.
The results suggested that elevated
parental control, especially in authoritarian settings, can have detrimental
effects on children's development, particularly for boys. However, "A
father's active involvement and presence in the family can improve sibling
relationships and create a more supportive family environment," noted
several participants.
Key Findings from Interviews with Mental
Health Professionals
The interviews with 100 mental health
professionals, including psychologists, psychotherapists, and psychiatrists
working with child-parent relationships, revealed several key findings
regarding the impact of parenting on a child's mental development. The majority of respondents (95%) highlighted the crucial
role of parental education in shaping a child’s mental state and personality
development. One expert noted, "The way parents raise their children not
only forms their character but also determines how they adapt to challenges in
life." Psychologists and psychotherapists emphasized that parenting styles
significantly affect a child’s emotional well-being and overall mental health,
with 80% of participants stressing this point.
Additionally, 75% of the professionals
underscored the importance of a constructive partnership between parents and
children, where mutual understanding, trust, and open dialogue are fundamental.
According to one participant, "A positive parent-child relationship
creates a supportive emotional climate that fosters psychological
resilience." The thematic analysis also revealed that 87% of the experts
highlighted specific aspects of harmonious parent-child relationships that
contribute to the development of a mentally healthy child. Emotional support
was identified by 70 respondents as one of the key factors. Providing warmth
and understanding gives children a sense of security and helps build a positive
emotional environment.
Open communication was another essential
aspect, noted by 80% of the respondents. Professionals emphasized that
"the ability to communicate openly with children about their problems
fosters trust and deeper connections between parents and children."
Supporting independence and development was highlighted by 80 participants,
with experts agreeing that creating opportunities for children to develop their
own skills and confidence contributes significantly to their mental health. 90%
of the respondents stressed the importance of setting clear boundaries in
family life and 84% of professionals pointed out that spending quality time
with children strengthens bonds and enhances emotional development. "Time
spent together fosters trust and mutual understanding, which is crucial for a
child's emotional growth," commented psychotherapist.
The findings demonstrate that harmonious
parent-child relationships are characterized by emotional support, open
communication, encouragement of independence, clear boundaries, and quality
time spent together. These factors are crucial in fostering a mentally healthy
and resilient personality in children.
The majority of surveyed mental health professionals (90%) indicated that a lack of
harmony in child-parent relationships can lead to various negative consequences
for a child’s mental health. These consequences, according to the respondents,
include psychological issues such as feelings of insecurity, anxiety, and
depression. The participants noted that insufficient support and understanding
from parents often result in low self-esteem and a sense of rejection in the
child. Additionally, conflicts and tensions within family relationships were
reported to cause stress and emotional challenges for children. Professionals
also highlighted that a lack of stability and support negatively affects a
child's social adjustment and can lead to behavioural problems. The findings from the interviews further
emphasized that most psychologists, psychiatrists, and psychotherapists view
harmonious child-parent relationships as crucial for a child’s mental health.
The professionals agreed that such relationships help reduce stress and
anxiety, enhance self-confidence, foster social skills, support learning, and
contribute to emotional resilience in children. They affirmed that a positive
and supportive relationship between parents and children is essential for the
overall mental well-being of the younger generation. Various strategies and
approaches were identified by the respondents as useful for promoting these
harmonious relationships (Table 1).
Table
1. Strategies and
approaches for establishing harmonious child-parent relationships.
|
No. |
Strategy |
Description |
Examples |
|
1 |
Emotional
support and openness |
Parents can create an emotionally supportive atmosphere where children
sense that their feelings and opinions are important. It is important for
parents to be open to communication and listen to their children. |
Parents can listen to their child’s thoughts and feelings about
experiences at school or problems with friends and support them in difficult
life situations. |
|
2 |
Joint
activities and spending time together |
Joint activities and spending time together help to strengthen the
bond between parents and children. It can be a variety of games, sports
activities, walks, or even cooking together. |
Parents and their children can visit the amusement park, play board
games, or go for a walk in the forest. |
|
3 |
Setting clear
boundaries and rules |
Clear boundaries and rules help to establish stability and discipline
in family life. It is important that these rules are clear and fair for all
family members. |
The family can set a rule that homework must be completed by a certain
time every evening with a reward. This helps to create a routine and helps
children develop self-discipline and organisation skills. It is important
that parents are also involved in the process. |
|
4 |
Open dialogue
and communication |
Parents should create opportunities for open dialogue and communication
with their children. This helps to resolve conflicts and important issues and
promotes mutual understanding. |
Parents can hold regular family meetings where each family member can
express their thoughts and ideas about family issues. |
|
5 |
Support for
independence and development |
Parents should support the child’s independence and development by
providing opportunities for choice and self-expression. It is important to
allow children to develop their identity and self-confidence. |
Parents can allow their children to choose their activities or
hobbies, contributing to their self-fulfilment and development of their
interests. |
|
6 |
Understanding
and supporting individual needs |
Parents should understand and support their child’s individual needs,
helping them to solve problems and achieve their goals. |
Parents can provide additional help or resources to develop their
child’s talents in areas that are particularly interesting or important to
them. |
Source:
compiled by the author of this study.
The findings indicated that these strategies can be
effective in fostering harmonious parent-child relationships, which contribute
to the development of a mentally healthy personality in children. Respondents
noted that various psychotherapeutic approaches play a crucial role in
establishing such relationships and supporting the child’s mental health.
Specifically, family therapy was identified as a key method for improving
communication between parents and children. The family therapist acts as a
mediator, creating a safe space for the open expression of feelings and needs
by all family members. The goal is to create an atmosphere of mutual support
and understanding, which helps reduce conflicts and improve the overall quality
of interactions within the family.
Psychotherapeutic Approaches in Family Relationships
Family therapy is based on the theories of the
systemic approach, which consider the family as an interdependent system, where
changes in one part can affect the entire system. This approach allows findings
and solving problems that may arise in the interaction between parents and
children, thereby ensuring the stability and development of family
relationships. For instance, if a family has a child with behavioural problems
or emotional difficulties, family therapy can help parents better understand
these problems and teach them how to respond effectively. Furthermore, family
therapy can be useful for families experiencing crisis situations, such as job
loss or serious illness of a family member. This approach allows the family to
solve problems together, strengthening shared pain and supporting each other in
difficult life situations.
Respondents indicated that, in addition to family
therapy, play therapy is another effective method that helps establish
harmonious parent-child relationships and contributes to the development of a
mentally healthy personality in a child. Thematic analysis revealed that this
approach is based on the use of playful and creative methods for communicating
with children and addressing their issues. Play therapy is particularly
beneficial for children as it allows them to freely express their emotions,
thoughts, and feelings through play. This creates a safe space where the child
can identify their needs and reduce stress and anxiety. The results of the
study also showed that during play therapy, children develop social skills.
Through play, they learn to communicate, cooperate, resolve conflicts, and
share toys with others, which is an important aspect of their interaction with
parents and others. One respondent noted, "Play therapy helps children
build trust with their parents through shared activities and emotional
communication." Play therapy can be useful in various situations, such as
when there are issues with communication, conflict resolution, or maintaining
emotional well-being. According to the respondents, this method allows both
children and parents to express their feelings and thoughts through play and
creativity, promoting better mutual understanding.
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is one of the most
evidence-based and effective approaches that can contribute to the
establishment of harmonious child-parent relationships and the development of a
mentally healthy personality in a child (Lebowitz et al., 2020). This approach
is based on changing negative thoughts and behavioural patterns that can become
an obstacle to a harmonious relationship between a child and their parents. For
parents, CBT can be helpful in addressing parenting issues, learning effective
strategies for communicating with children, developing positive psychological
models, and supporting the development of positive relationships with their
children. For children, especially adolescents, CBT can help develop
self-control skills, understand their emotions and reactions, and develop
strategies for effective communication with parents. The use of CBT can help
create an atmosphere of mutual understanding, trust, and support in the family,
which helps to strengthen the relationship between parents and children. When
communication problems or conflicts arise, or there are mismatched expectations
or stressful situations such as divorce or relocation, CBT helps to uncover the
root of the problems, teach effective communication and conflict resolution
strategies, and help build positive parent-child relationships.
Psychological Education for Parents
Psychological education for parents is an important
and effective tool for establishing harmonious relationships with children and
promoting their mental health (Barlow et al., 2012). The trainings, seminars,
and lectures are aimed at providing parents with the necessary skills,
strategies, and knowledge to foster positive relationships with their children
and ensure best conditions for their development and health. Psychological
education for parents should be used when family relationships need to be improved
but have not reached a level that requires serious therapeutic intervention.
This approach is useful when there are minor conflicts, communication
difficulties, or inconsistencies in parenting. In addition, psychological
education can be used as a preventive measure to maintain healthy and
harmonious relationships in the family. This approach is particularly effective
when parents show interest and willingness to cooperate, as well as a desire to
change their approach to raising and interacting with their children. The use
of psychological education is also justified in situations where family
problems have not yet reached a crisis level but require attention and support
to resolve them.
Based on the method of systematisation, the study
identified the features of family therapy, play therapy, cognitive behavioural
therapy, and psychoeducation for parents as effective approaches aimed at
stimulating harmonious relationships between parents and children. Each of
these approaches differs in application and features, but they are all aimed at
creating a favourable environment for balanced development and positive
interaction between parents and children. These methods not only provide parents
with tools to resolve conflicts and improve communication with their children, but also help them to improve their understanding
of their children’s needs and emotions, which is crucial for their child’s
mental development and well-being.
DISCUSSION
Main findings
The findings of this study confirm the
importance of harmonious child-parent relationships for the mental well-being
of the child. Emotional support, joint activities, clear boundaries, open
dialogue, support for autonomy and development, and understanding and
supporting individual needs were key strategies for building such
relationships. Ensuring these aspects not only helps to reduce stress and
anxiety, but also promotes social skills, facilitates learning, and promotes
emotional stability in the child. Family therapy, play therapy, cognitive
behavioural therapy, and parental education are effective methods for promoting
harmonious relationships between parents and children. It is worth comparing
the findings of this study with the developments of other scientists in this
area.
Comparison with other studies
Crișan and Pura (2022), Zhong et al. (2023) notes the importance of combining
the theory of resource conservation, ecological model, and the model of
individual-context relations to understand the dynamics of the relationship
between parents and children. The cited study found that the interplay between
these factors is key to forming and maintaining stable and satisfying
friendships during adolescence. Researchers note that the effectiveness of
measures to improve the quality of adolescent friendships is determined by
considering various aspects, including family, neighbourhood, and individual
factors. They point to the need to factor in the contextual and sociocultural
features that influence the development of relationships and friendships in
adolescence. Such approach offers a better insight into how these factors
interact with each other and how this affects the dynamics of friendship.
Compared to the findings of the present study, it is worth agreeing with the
opinion of scientists, as the quality of parental relationships has a direct
impact on social adaptation and mental well-being of adolescents, which
emphasises the significance of paying attention to this aspect in family
upbringing and pedagogical practice (Brighouse & Swift, 2014; Basili et
al., 2021).
Obeldobel and Kerns (2021) focus on the importance of personal positive traits,
such as gratitude, for mental well-being. The researchers demonstrate that
children's gratitude levels are higher when parents show gratitude, maintain a
strong parent-child attachment, and provide support, autonomy, and warmth.
These findings are consistent with existing theories of attachment, social
learning, and socialization of emotions, as well as with the
find-remind-connect theory, which suggests that receiving gratitude promotes
positive attitudes toward the person expressing it and may lead to increased
prosocial behavior (Brighouse & Swift, 2014).
Further research has shown that childhood gratitude is positively correlated
with greater life satisfaction, positive affect, and mental well-being in both
cross-sectional studies and intervention trials (Mattanah
et al. 2011). These findings support the extension and construction theory, the
adaptive cycle model, and the schematic hypothesis, which explore how emotional
and psychological resilience affects well-being (Ashbourne & Daly, 2010).
The authors propose a new model in which child gratitude mediates the
relationship between parent-child factors and children's mental well-being.
They identify several mechanisms that may explain the link between gratitude
and well-being. The proposed model offers a new synthesis of existing research
on childhood gratitude and is an important contribution to the current
literature by suggesting potential mechanisms related to the development of
gratitude and its impact on mental health (Obeldobel
& Kerns, 2021). This model will serve as a basis for future research that
will test the validity and implications of these mechanisms. Comparing the
cited study with the findings presented in the present paper, it can be
concluded that harmonious child-parent relationships have a considerable impact
on the development of a mentally healthy personality (Hloviuk
et al., 2024). Both studies show that children who grow up in relationships
characterised by warmth, support, mutual understanding, and openness to
expressing emotions are more likely to have healthy mental development.
Carr (2019) addresses the effectiveness of
systemic therapy for parents, which is aimed at preserving the mental health of
children and promoting the harmonious development of their personality. The
researcher defines systemic intervention as including family therapy and other
approaches, such as parenting education or behavioural programmes, that parents
can use. The analysis of his findings confirms the effectiveness of systemic
interventions, both separately and as part of comprehensive programmes. These
interventions successfully address issues such as sleep disorders, feeding and
attachment issues, and help children recover from abuse, neglect, behavioural
problems, emotional and eating disorders, somatic problems, and the first
episode of psychosis. Notably, harmonious parent-child relationships play a key
role in the development a harmonious personality (Runcan, 2012). Achieving this goal requires a comprehensive approach, including the
development of appropriate communication and interaction skills, building
positive relationships, and promoting the psychological well-being of all
family members.
According to Conway et al. (2020),
children who experience divorce from either parent are more likely to develop
strained relationships with the parent they are separated from, which can
negatively impact their mental health and overall well-being. Specifically,
Diamond et al. (2021) found that children separated from their mothers are 4.7
times more likely to report a poor relationship with her, while those separated
from their fathers are 3.4 times more likely to report a similarly poor
relationship with their fathers. This highlights the critical role that
parent-child relationships play in children’s mental development and emotional
stability. Divorce can induce considerable stress in children, which affects
their mental and emotional well-being (Dudar et al., 2024). The loss of regular
contact with a parent often leads to feelings of grief, loneliness, and
insecurity, which can diminish their quality of life and strain their
relationships with peers and others (Secheiko, 2022).
Given these findings, it is crucial to develop support programs for families
undergoing divorce to mitigate the negative effects on children’s psychological
health. Drawing on the therapeutic approaches discussed earlier, systemic
family therapy programs and other mental health resources can equip parents
with the skills and tools necessary to maintain positive relationships with
their children, thereby fostering the development of a mentally healthy child
(River et al., 2022).
Teufl and Ahnert (2022) highlight that the
types of games parents engage in with their children, rather than the parent’s
gender, are the primary factors influencing parent-child play behaviour. Their
study revealed differences in how parents behave during play: some exhibited
more encouraging and affirming behaviour, fostering mental engagement, while
others were more focused on physical stimulation. Importantly, the research
found that high levels of encouraging and affirming parental behaviour were positively
correlated with high-quality play interactions. In cognitive games, fathers
demonstrated lower quality interactions compared to mothers, while both parents
exhibited similar levels of quality in physical games. These differences in
parental behaviour may reflect varying parenting styles and the nature of
parent-child relationships, which can significantly affect children’s overall
development and mental health (Dembitska & Girnyak, 2022).
The findings of Teufl and Ahnert (2022)
underscore the critical role of high-quality parent-child interactions in
fostering positive relationships and supporting mental well-being in children.
Harmonious relationships between parents and children, as highlighted by the
study, are essential for the development of a positive personality in children
and contribute to their emotional and psychological growth (Zhong et al.,
2023). This aligns with the broader literature on the importance of family
dynamics in the socialisation process and child mental health, reinforcing the
concept that supportive, engaged, and nurturing relationships are foundational
to children’s psychological well-being. Research highlights the importance of
quality parent-child interaction for the development of stable and satisfying
friendships during adolescence and the maintenance of mental well-being.
Learning about these relationships, as well as developing positive personality
traits such as gratitude, are crucial for a child’s mental development and
social adaptation. Harmonious parental relationships are a key factor in
creating a favourable environment for the development of positive personality
traits and mental well-being.
The results of this study make a unique
contribution to the field by highlighting the critical role of therapeutic
approaches, such as play therapy, in fostering harmonious parent-child
relationships. Unlike many studies that focus solely on the parents' or
children's perspectives, this research emphasizes the professional insights of
mental health specialists, providing a deeper understanding of how structured
therapeutic methods can positively influence child development. By focusing on
the expertise of psychologists, psychotherapists, and psychiatrists, the study
brings forward practical, evidence-based strategies for improving family
dynamics, such as reducing stress and anxiety in children through emotional
support and communication. This professional perspective is particularly
valuable in bridging the gap between clinical interventions and everyday family
interactions, offering a roadmap for integrating therapeutic practices into
real-life parenting situations. Furthermore, the study underscores the importance
of early emotional development in the context of family relationships,
contributing to a broader understanding of how these relationships impact
long-term mental health outcomes for children.
Strengths and limitations
One of the main strengths of this study is the large
and diverse sample of 100 mental health professionals from various specialties,
including psychologists, psychotherapists, and psychiatrists. This provides a
broad perspective on the role of parent-child relationships in mental health
from a professional standpoint. Additionally, the use of qualitative methods
such as thematic analysis allowed for an in-depth exploration of the
professionals' views, offering valuable insights into the factors that contribute
to a child’s mental well-being. The study also addressed an important gap in
the existing literature by focusing on the impact of parenting practices,
rather than solely on child mental health outcomes.
A major limitation of this study is that it did not
include the perspectives of parents. Since the participants were exclusively
mental health professionals, the findings reflect only professional viewpoints
and do not account for how parents perceive their relationships with their
children or how they apply various therapeutic approaches in everyday life.
Another limitation is the lack of diversity among the participants, as all
respondents work in the field of mental health. This may limit the generalizability
of the results to a broader audience, including other professional groups or
parents. Moreover, the study was conducted within a single cultural and social
context, which could influence the generalizability of the findings to other
regions or countries with different cultural norms and approaches to parenting.
Conclusions
Close relationships between parents and children are
one of the key components of adolescents’ self-esteem. The quality of these
relationships is determined by the level of understanding, support, and trust
that parents provide. Interaction with parents plays an important role in the
psychological growth and positive well-being of children. Having free time to
spend with parents helps build a more profound emotional connection and
understanding. However, it is necessary to maintain a balance between control
and autonomy, as excessive control by parents can have a negative impact on
children’s development, especially in the case of sons.
The present study was based on interviews with 100
mental health professionals, the results of which confirm the importance of
harmonious parent-child relationships for a child’s mental well-being.
Emotional support, joint activities, clear boundaries, open dialogue, support
for autonomy and development, and understanding and supporting individual needs
are key strategies for building such relationships. Providing for these aspects
not only helps to reduce stress and anxiety, but also promotes social skills,
facilitates learning and promotes emotional resilience in the child. The
interviewees noted that family therapy, play therapy, cognitive behavioural
therapy, and parental psychological education are commonly regarded as valuable
methods for promoting harmonious parent-child relationships and supporting the
child’s mental well-being. However, this study did not directly assess the
effectiveness of these interventions. Although these approaches differ in their
application, they all aim to create a favourable environment for the
development of healthy and positive relationships between parents and children.
In doing so, they not only provide parents with tools to resolve conflicts and
improve communication with their children, but also
contribute to a more profound understanding of their needs and emotions, which
is crucial for the child’s mental development and well-being.
Further research should pay attention to investigating
the impact of modern digital technologies on child-parent relationships and the
consequences for the mental health of a young person.
ORCID
Spytska Liana https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9004-727X
AUTHORS’ CONTRIBUTION
Spytska Liana:
Conceptualization, Methodology, Validation, Formal analysis, Investigation,
Data Curation, Writing - Original Draft, Visualization.
FUNDING
SOURCE
This study has not been
funded by any institution.
CONFLICT
OF INTEREST
The author declares no
conflict of interest.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Not applicable.
REVIEW
PROCESS
This study has been reviewed by external peers in double-blind mode.
The editor in charge was David Villarreal-Zegarra. The review process is
included as supplementary material 1.
DATA
AVAILABILITY STATEMENT
Not applicable.
DECLARATION OF THE USE OF GENERATIVE ARTIFICIAL
INTELLIGENCE
The author declare that they have not made use of artificial
intelligence-generated tools for the creation of the manuscript, nor
technological assistants for the writing.
DISCLAIMER
The author is responsible for all statements made in
this article.
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