The 3 Most Perilous Parenting Styles—According to A Psychologist
Parenting is one of the most challenging yet rewarding roles in life, but not all approaches yield positive outcomes. According to a recent article published on forbes, psychologist Travers Mark highlights the three most dangerous parenting styles that can have long-term negative effects on children. These styles, rooted in psychological research, are crucial for parents to understand to foster healthier family dynamics.
The first style, authoritarian parenting, is characterized by strict rules and high demands with little room for emotional warmth or adaptability. “This approach frequently enough leads to children who are obedient but struggle with self-esteem and decision-making,” explains Mark. Research shows that children raised in such environments may develop anxiety or rebellious tendencies as they grow older [[2]].
The second dangerous style is permissive parenting, where parents are overly lenient and fail to set boundaries. While this approach may seem nurturing, it frequently enough results in children who lack discipline and struggle with authority figures. “Without clear guidelines,children may find it tough to navigate social norms and responsibilities,” Mark notes. Studies suggest that permissive parenting can lead to behavioral issues and poor academic performance [[1]].The third and perhaps most harmful style is neglectful parenting, where parents are emotionally and physically absent.This lack of engagement can leave children feeling unloved and unsupported, often leading to severe emotional and psychological challenges. “Neglectful parenting is linked to higher rates of depression, substance abuse, and difficulties in forming healthy relationships,” Mark warns [[3]].
To better understand these styles, here’s a summary table comparing their key characteristics and potential impacts:
| Parenting Style | Key Traits | potential Impact on Children |
|————————|—————————————–|————————————————|
| Authoritarian | Strict rules, low warmth | Low self-esteem, anxiety, rebellious behavior |
| Permissive | Lenient, few boundaries | poor discipline, behavioral issues |
| neglectful | Emotionally and physically absent | Depression, substance abuse, relationship issues|
Mark emphasizes that while no parent is perfect, awareness of these styles can definitely help caregivers make more informed decisions. “The goal is to strive for a balanced approach, such as authoritative parenting, which combines clear expectations with emotional support,” he advises.
For parents looking to refine their approach, resources like the Jai Institute for Parenting offer valuable insights into fostering healthier family dynamics [[1]].Additionally, Psychology Today provides a wealth of articles on effective parenting strategies [[2]].Understanding the impact of parenting styles is not just about avoiding pitfalls—it’s about creating an environment where children can thrive emotionally, socially, and academically. As Mark concludes, “Parenting is a journey, and every step toward balance and understanding makes a difference.”
For more in-depth analysis, explore the full article on Forbes here.
3 Signs You Play the ‘Parent’ in Your Relationship—By a Psychologist
Table of Contents
Relationships are complex, and sometimes, without even realizing it, one partner takes on a parental role. According to a recent article by Forbes,this dynamic can lead to imbalance and dissatisfaction.Psychologist Travers Mark highlights three key signs that you might be playing the “parent” in your relationship.
1. You’re Always the decision-Maker
If you find yourself making most of the decisions—from what to eat for dinner to major life choices—you might be slipping into a parental role. This can create a power imbalance, leaving your partner feeling sidelined. As Mark explains, “Healthy relationships thrive on mutual decision-making, not one-sided control.”
2. You Constantly Take Care of Your Partner
While care and support are essential in any relationship, overdoing it can signal a parental dynamic. Are you always the one managing chores, finances, or emotional labor? This can lead to resentment over time. Mark notes,“When one partner becomes the perpetual caretaker,it can stifle the othre’s growth and independence.”
3. You Feel Responsible for Your Partner’s Happiness
If you’re constantly worrying about your partner’s emotional state or feel guilty when they’re unhappy, you might be taking on too much obligation. Mark emphasizes, “A healthy relationship allows both partners to take ownership of their emotions and well-being.”
Key Takeaways: Are You Playing the Parent?
| sign | What It Means |
|————————————|———————————————————————————–|
| Always the decision-maker | You control most aspects of the relationship,leaving little room for collaboration.|
| Constant caretaking | You handle the majority of responsibilities, which can lead to burnout. |
| Responsible for partner’s happiness| You feel overly accountable for your partner’s emotional state. |
Why This Matters
Playing the “parent” in a relationship can lead to emotional exhaustion and relationship dissatisfaction. According to Mark, “Partnerships should be built on equality, where both individuals feel valued and empowered.”
If you recognize these signs in your relationship, it might be time to reassess your dynamic. Open communication and setting boundaries can definitely help restore balance. For more insights on relationship dynamics, check out Forbes’ article on 1 Unique Trait That Profoundly Impacts Relationship Satisfaction.
Final Thoughts
Understanding and addressing these patterns can transform your relationship. As Mark wisely puts it,“A healthy partnership is a dance of equals,not a hierarchy.” If you’re ready to break free from the parental role, start by fostering open dialog and mutual respect.
For more expert advice on relationships, explore Forbes’ latest insights on The TikTok and Weather Communication Conundrum.—
What’s your take on relationship dynamics? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
A Circus Elephant Was Publicly Hanged in 1916—The Tragic Tale of ‘Murderous Mary’
On January 18, 2025, the haunting story of Murderous Mary, a circus elephant publicly hanged in 1916, resurfaced, reminding the world of a dark chapter in animal entertainment history. The tale, recounted in a recent Forbes article, sheds light on the tragic events that led to Mary’s execution and the broader implications for animal welfare.
Mary, a five-ton Asian elephant, was part of the Sparks World Famous Shows circus. Her life took a grim turn on September 12, 1916, when she killed her inexperienced handler, Red Eldridge, in Kingsport, Tennessee. Witnesses claimed the incident occurred after Eldridge prodded Mary with a bullhook, a sharp tool commonly used to control elephants. The tragedy sparked outrage, and rumors of Mary being a “murderous” animal spread rapidly.
Fearing public backlash, the circus owner, Charlie Sparks, made the controversial decision to execute Mary. On September 13, 1916, she was transported to Erwin, Tennessee, where a crowd of over 2,500 people gathered to witness her hanging.The event was as gruesome as it was tragic. A chain was wrapped around Mary’s neck, and she was lifted by a railroad derrick. The first attempt failed, breaking her hip, but the second attempt succeeded, ending her life.
This shocking event has since become a symbol of the mistreatment of animals in circuses and the need for reform. As the Forbes article highlights, Mary’s story is a stark reminder of the consequences of exploiting animals for entertainment.
Key Takeaways from mary’s Story
| Event | Details |
|——————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Date of Incident | September 12, 1916 |
| Location | Kingsport, Tennessee |
| Execution Date | September 13, 1916 |
| Execution Method | Public hanging using a railroad derrick |
| Crowd Size | Over 2,500 spectators |
| Legacy | Symbol of animal mistreatment and circus reform |
Mary’s story has inspired modern movements advocating for animal rights and the end of animal exploitation in circuses. Organizations like PETA and the Humane Society have worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the ethical treatment of animals, ensuring that such tragedies are not repeated.
As we reflect on this harrowing tale, it’s crucial to remember the lessons it teaches. The exploitation of animals for entertainment is not only unethical but also dangerous. Mary’s execution serves as a poignant reminder of the need for compassion and respect toward all living beings.
For more on this story, read the full article on Forbes.—
What are your thoughts on the legacy of Murderous Mary? Share your views in the comments below and join the conversation about animal welfare and ethical entertainment.
The story of “Murderous Mary” is a tragic and sobering reminder of the mistreatment of animals in entertainment and the consequences of human negligence. Mary, a five-ton Asian elephant, was part of the Sparks World Famous Shows circus. her life took a devastating turn on September 12,1916,when she killed her inexperienced handler,Red Eldridge,in Kingsport,Tennessee. The incident, which was likely a result of stress, mistreatment, or a lack of proper training, led to a public outcry and demands for her execution.
The circus, fearing backlash and financial ruin, decided to publicly hang Mary as a form of retribution and spectacle. On September 13, 1916, in erwin, Tennessee, Mary was hanged from a railroad derrick in front of a crowd of over 2,500 people. The execution was botched, requiring multiple attempts, and it remains a harrowing exmaple of the cruelty and ignorance of the time.
Mary’s story has as become a symbol of the need for animal rights and ethical treatment. It highlights the dangers of exploiting animals for entertainment and the importance of understanding their needs and behaviors. While attitudes toward animal welfare have evolved significantly since 1916,Mary’s tragic fate serves as a reminder of the work still needed to protect animals from harm and exploitation.
For more on this story and its past context, you can explore the full article on Forbes here.