What is psychological control in parenting?

Psychological control in parenting refers to strategies that involve manipulation of the child's emotions and psychological experiences. This typically manifests in behaviors such as inducing feelings of guilt, shame, or anxiety in children as a way to exert influence or discipline them. By relying on methods that withhold love, approval, or affection, parents may attempt to control their child's behavior, leading to a detrimental impact on the child’s emotional development.

This concept contrasts with more positive parenting techniques, such as those that promote independence or support emotional well-being. For instance, the other options suggest parenting styles that either encourage autonomy or provide emotional support, which do not align with the definition of psychological control. Understanding psychological control helps identify its potential negative effects on child development, such as increased levels of anxiety and lower self-esteem in children.