Nov. 13 a Brigham Young University study posted findings that children with developmental disabilities gain greater independence and cooperation with positive parenting. While most studies done have showed this to be true in developing children, the study is new for those with delayed development.
Studies looked at parenting styles of those with children that had autism, Down's Syndrome, and several other developmental delays and found that the children whose parents used positive reinforcement over those that yelled and were constantly telling their children "no" progressed further than was expected. Despite the wide variety of disabilities studied and the overall magnitude of the disability, the results across the board were beneficial in those with positively parenting.
Children studied that were positively parented showed higher independence, improved temperament, better language skills, emotional expression and social interaction. Those children also saw a decrease in symptoms and severity over time.
While the study recognizes the overall challenge of being able to show eye contact and happy, smiling faces all the time with their children, it is overall best instead of attempting to dictate to a child things that they aren't understanding. Similarly, just because your child has autism, Down's Syndrome, or another disability, you should not simply appease them so that they don't throw a fit or start a tantrum. The child shouldn't be receiving special familial treatment or special attention because they have a disability. That simply reinforces that there is something wrong.
The stress level of a parent is also a huge concern in the type of parenting they use. Because of this, and so many other beneficial reasons, early detection is hugely important in helping to maintain or lessen the severity of symptoms and helping a parent to know what to expect and why their child is behaving as they do.
Are you a parent of a child with disabilities? Have you seen a difference in your child due to positive parenting techniques? Please share your story below.
Comments