“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infant may become withdrawn and fail to make crucial connections.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.

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