A family dynamics theory perspective on parenting styles and children’s aggressive behavior

Children’s mental health and behavioral habits are crucial to social development. Previous studies have focused on social learning theory and Baumrind’s parenting style theory to explain the impact of parenting style on children’s aggressive behavior, but findings have been inconsistent. This paper introduces family dynamics theory in order to further elucidate the complexities surrounding the relationship between parenting styles and child aggression, with the aim of informing interventions to reduce child aggression and promote child behavioral health.

Questionnaire method was used in the study. Simplified Parenting Style Scale, Aggression Questionnaire, Questionnaire of Systemic Family Dynamics were used to measure psychological condition of 455 primary school children.

Findings indicate that parental rejection, overprotection, and system logic positively predict aggressive behavior, whereas emotional warmth and family climate negatively predict it. Notably, family climate and system logic mediate the relationship between parenting styles and children’s aggressive behavior.

These results underscore the importance of positive parenting practices, a nurturing family environment, and the cultivation of diverse cognitive skills in mitigating children’s aggressive tendencies.