The environment in which the child grows upt, in particular the socio-economic conditions of the parental home, can play a role in his future life, in particular in matters of health. A study from Baylor University in Texas (United States) highlights the impact of another less studied aspect. The place of emotional bond between parents and children in the future health of the latter. Researchers point to the importance for children of maintaining quality relationships with their parents to limit health problems in adulthood.
The study explains that a child who grows up in an economically well-off environment may be deprived of the benefits associated with this privileged childhood if he has lacked parental affection or worse, if he has suffered abuse.
In other words, a poor quality parent-child relationship could negate the advantages for future health linked to the fact of having had favorable living conditions (a good diet, a good sleep and correct physical activity) in childhood. “Previous studies have linked socioeconomic status to better nutrition in childhood, better sleep, a quality environment and opportunities to develop skills. physical and social constraints, says Dr. Matthew A. Andersson, assistant professor of sociology at Baylor College. Adult age. “
Possible “stigmas” for decades
The researchers found the influence of the parent-child bond on adult health by analyzing the health status of 2,746 American adults. They were also asked about the relationships they had with their parents in childhood.
The results, published in the review Journal of Health and Social Behavior, emphasizes that the protective effect of an advantageous socio-economic environment can be suppressed by this harmful emotional bond. A negative influence that could be felt in adulthood for decades to come.
Good relationships with #parents may benefit #childrenshealth decades later: https://t.co/sOhVhYJlFM#parentalengagementpic.twitter.com/dQlv28wInI
– Baylor Media (@BaylorUMedia) September 20, 2016
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