The Power of Parenting

Abstract

The degree to which parents influence a child’s development and resilience has been studied by several researchers. Some studies examining fraternal and identical twins reared together or apart suggest that over the long term, parent behavior does not appear to significantly influence a child’s intelligence or personality. However, while parenting style may play a small statistical role in intelligence or personality development, even a small statistical parental role may have a major impact on a child’s overall development, effective adjustment, and resilience. If parents are to nurture resilience in their children, it is imperative that they understand the characteristics of a resilient mindset. A mindset may be understood as a set of assumptions and expectations that children possess about themselves and others that impact on their behaviors and skills. The key components of this mindset are outlined in this chapter together with the newly identified instincts of tenacity. Strength-based strategies for parents to use to nurture these components in their children are highlighted with case illustrations.