By understanding the power of evolutionary psychology, parents can gain tremendous insight into how their parenting approach shapes the development of their child. Evolutionary psychology focuses on how our ancestors’ behaviors and experiences have shaped the human brain and changed over time. Here we will explore this concept to gain a deeper understanding of the evolution of parenting and the development of the child.
What is the Evolutionary Perspective on Parenting?
Evolutionary psychology believes that there are innate characteristics in human development that influence everything from decision-making to social behavior. Parental tendencies and methods vary from culture to culture, as each society is influenced by its evolutionary past. Previous generations have shaped the parenting traditions and beliefs that have been passed down through the generations, contributing to the idea that many of the parenting techniques that we use today are largely the same as those practiced in the past.
Parenting behaviors of our ancestors were largely driven by the need to survive, with tactics ranging from protection to socializing. It is believed that our ancestors passed on these learnt behaviors, which become ingrained in our collective psyche, contributing to our evolved understanding of parenting.
What Are Evolutionary Theories of Child Development?
Evolutionary psychology proposes that the driving force of child development is a hasty adaptation to the environment, with the main goal of navigating and reducing risks. This allows children to survive and grow up in a stable, safe and supportive environment. For example, a toddler might feel protective of its sibling if the other sibling was in danger, thus displaying an innate form of risk-reduction behavior.
It is believed that children have an “inherited intelligence” that guides their behavior in a particular situation. So, when faced with an unfavorable experience, a child can subconsciously recognize the risk and react accordingly.
What is the Parent Discipline of Evolutionary Psychology?
Evolutionary psychology promotes mindful parenting to ensure the optimal development of the child. Mindful parenting allows parents to create an environment of safety and security for their child, while also promoting independence and the building of problem-solving skills.
Parents are encouraged to take a step back and evaluate the potential risks and situations before acting, as this allows them to think critically and make thoughtful decisions that support the child. Additionally, parents should be cognizant of the fact that their child will observe their own behaviors and emulate them, so it is prudent to ensure that their behaviour is appropriate and positively influences the child’s development.
How Does Parental Development Influence a Child’s Development?
Parental influence is immensely powerful and has been found to have a direct effect on the cognitive and social development of the child. Parental support and involvement has been found to foster self-regulation and other academic competencies, as well as social connectedness through the utilization of communication skills, such as active listening or problem-solving.
“The manner in which parents develop and teach self-regulation to their children is of primary importance to the child’s functioning,” – Debra Ginsberg
When parental behavior is inconsistent and unpredictable, children experience distress and confusion. This can lead to behavioral problems and difficulty forming relationships, as children are unable to trust their caregivers and feel emotionally secure. Additionally, harsh or punitive parenting techniques can lead to aggression, anxiety and depression in children, as they attempt to cope with their negative experiences.
On the other hand, when parents provide a nurturing, secure and loving environment for their children, the children feel safe, supported and secure. This allows the children to take risks and explore the world around them, whilst feeling confident in the support of their parents. This promotes the development of healthy and adaptive coping skills, responsible attitudes and values.
Conclusion:
Evolutionary psychology offers tremendous insight into how our parenting methods both shape and influence our children’s development. By understanding our ancestor’s learned behaviors, we can create an environment that fosters a sense of safety and comfort for our children, while also giving them the freedom to explore the world and take risks.
Mindful parenting allows us to think objectively and evaluate situations before acting, ensuring that we are always putting our child’s needs first. By understanding the power of evolutionary psychology and the importance of parental engagement, we can ensure that we are raising healthy, open-minded and emotionally secure children who have the capacity to fulfill their fullest potential.
References:
- Ginsberg, Debra. Raising Kids Who Can Problem Solve: Supporting Confident and Resourceful Children. Harvard Common Press, 2014.