Study on the Impact of Parenting Styles on Self-Confidence and Total Adjustment Among Indian Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

This cross-sectional study explores the impact of parenting styles on self-confidence and total adjustment among Indian adolescents aged 13 to 19 years. Utilizing a sample of 400 adolescents balanced by gender, the research employed validated scales to assess perceived parenting styles (authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, neglectful), psychological resilience, and adjustment across emotional, social, and academic domains. Findings indicate that authoritative parenting is strongly associated with higher self-confidence and better overall adjustment, while authoritarian and neglectful styles correlate with poorer psychological outcomes. Permissive parenting showed moderate effects. The study further highlights the role of mental health status, family psychiatric history, and lifestyle behaviors as important moderating factors. Positive parental behaviors— such as emotional openness, praise, respect for opinions, and encouragement of independence— emerged as critical in fostering adolescents' psychological immunity and adaptive capacities. The results underscore the need for culturally tailored parenting interventions that emphasize warmth, communication, and autonomy support to enhance adolescent well-being. This study contributes valuable insights into the psychosocial dynamics affecting Indian youth and informs mental health practitioners, educators, and policymakers aiming to promote effective parenting strategies in diverse cultural contexts