Essay, Research Paper: Psychology: Influence Of Parents Over Children

“Do Parents Really Matter?” By Annie M. Paul
Psychology Today, Vol. 31, no. 1, pp. 46-49,78
Psychologists now believe that a child’s personality is determined primarily by
their genetic make-up. After a twelve year study by David Reiss, M.D., parents are
believed to have little effect on the outcome of their child.
As well as genetics, environment plays a tremendous role in a child’s personality.
A child’s appearance (genetics) may bring about a reaction from others (environment).
Children that may appear to others as homely would get a negative type of reaction from
the outside world, as opposed to a beautiful child that would be constantly complimented,
raved about, and receiving affection from others. This negative reaction can bring about a
poor “person-to-environment match that can lead to diminished mental health, devreased
motivation, and a rebellious, anti-social behavior.” (47)
Parents do have some effect on their children. They influence their children’s
behavior with their own reactions. For example, some infants may be slower than others.
A disappointed parent may give up on the infant, showing little interest. On it’s own, the
infant may become withdrawn and fail to make crucial connections. Parents can
encourage and promote good attitudes by exposing their children to many things. In
doing so, a child can pick and choose what he/she may like best. In conclusion, children
must make the best of what nature provided them with.
I found this article interesting because of it’s controversy to many beliefs. For the
most part, I have always thought that parents played a huge role in the outcome of their
children. My general view has broadened since reading this article. I now believe that
genetics play a major role in developing personalities.


Word Count: 285