An Eriksonian Interpretation of Parenting Styles: Negative Residue from Childhood Stages Influences Adult Responsiveness and Demandingness

Abstract

This dissertation examines parenting style in light of Erik Erikson's psychosocial theory of personality development. After each of the well-established parenting styles is described, research showing a correlation between personality traits and parenting style is reviewed supporting the interpretation of parenting styles in terms of personality development. Coping mechanisms are examined as the link between certain parenting styles and personality development. An overview of Erikson's theory of personality development is provided including his recognition and description of two antithetical parenting styles, authoritative and neglectful, within the generative stage. Erikson's theory is extrapolated to describe the development of the other two parenting styles. For theoretical reasons, the first four Erikson stages are assumed to have the greatest impact on parenting. It is proposed that the psychosocial virtues from the four childhood stages contribute directly to authoritative parenting style and that negative residue in those same stages contributes directly to authoritarian and permissive parenting. Support for this interpretation is obtained from existing research. The possible benefits of this interpretation in improving inadequate parenting styles are discussed. Corrective procedures are offered and an example is provided.