Why parenting matters for children in the 21st century
An evidence-based framework for understanding parenting and its impact on child development
This paper provides a structured overview of the existing parenting literature with
the aim of developing an evidence-based and culture-sensitive framework of parenting
and its influence on child development. The paper outlines how changes in the 21st
century have altered family life and summarises evidence from 29 meta-studies and
81 quantitative studies for the developmental impact of different parenting styles
and dimensions. Overall, results suggest that warm parenting that provides children
with age-appropriate autonomy and structure is key for a healthy and prosperous development
of children and adolescents across various domains. The parenting approach adopted
by parents but also its effect varies and the paper points to various contextual (e.g.
culture, socio-economic factors, support within the community and family) and individual
(e.g. gender, personality and health condition of children and parents) factors explaining
these variations. The paper discusses how a systematic consideration of such factors
not only sharpens the scientific understanding of parenting and its impact but also
helps improving family policies and support.
Published on June 10, 2020
In series:OECD Education Working Papersview more titles