Popular parenting myths debunked: What does new research say about adult personalities?

It’s been said (by Jess Lair), "Children are not things to be molded, but are people to be unfolded." When one talks about parenting, it is probably the most important thing to remember that children are shaped based on how their parents act, lead, and therefore, set an example. Parenting is crucial for a child's development, providing love, security, and guidance needed for healthy growth and success. It also involves teaching children how to interact with their environment and develop appropriate social behaviors. While positive parenting impacts various areas of a child's development, including friendships, lifestyle, and overall well-being, the psychology of both the parents and children at at play in the process.

Recent research has prompted a reevaluation of established views and myths in psychology, particularly the belief that parenting is the primary influence on adult personality traits.


Read on to know more:

In his new book, ‘Rethinking Psychology: Finding Meaning in Misconceptions’, renowned psychologist Michael W. Eysenck critically examines these commonly held beliefs, advocating for a significant change in how we understand mental health and brain function.

Debunking the parenting myths:

Different gender, different personalities?
One myth under scrutiny is the notion that men and women possess fundamentally different personality traits. Dr. Eysenck argues that this topic has been overhyped, leading to a plethora of misconceptions. Current studies reveal that findings are inconsistent and often vary based on geographical, cultural, and demographic factors.

Do genetics play a role in budding personality traits?
Another widely believed myth is that parenting is the predominant factor shaping personality. However, a thorough review of the literature indicates that genetic influences play a much larger role in determining adult personality traits.

Does brain training increase a child’s brain function?
Dr. Eysenck also addresses the public’s belief in subliminal messaging, often fueled by media portrayals, despite the limited empirical support for such theories. Additionally, he challenges the idea that brain training significantly enhances cognitive functioning, emphasizing that genetics is a primary determinant of intelligence.

Eysenck notes that distorted interpretations of psychological research frequently arise from our biases. "We tend to believe psychological myths because they align with our personal experiences or confirm our pre-existing beliefs," he explains.

Mental health and its effects:

The author also delves into various misconceptions surrounding mental illnesses, highlighting their prevalence in society. For instance, many people wrongly attribute mental illnesses almost entirely to life experiences. In reality, research points to a complex interplay among social, environmental, and genetic factors. While life experiences can trigger mental disorders, their impact is highly variable depending on the quality of social support individuals receive.

Another prevalent myth is the belief that antidepressants are significantly more effective than psychotherapy. In fact, many patients experience relapses after using antidepressants, as these medications often fail to address the root of their problems.

Eysenck challenges the effectiveness of current psychological research and the mental health classification systems in place. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), which lists 541 distinct disorders, has been criticized for excessive categorization. Many disorders share underlying traits, suggesting the need for a revision in how mental health conditions are defined and treated.

The resolution:

To combat these ‘popular’ myths, Eysenck encourages a more critical approach to understanding psychology. He points out that media representations can distort psychological realities; films frequently dramatize mental health conditions, news coverage often leans toward sensationalism, and popular psychology literature tends to oversimplify complex issues.

He advises individuals to remain cautious about overly simplified media narratives and to be mindful of anecdotal evidence, confirmation bias, and wishful thinking. In the academic realm, he advocates for substantial changes in the methodology and reporting of psychological research. Eysenck raises concerns about reproducibility and acknowledges that commercial interests can substantially influence research outcomes, creating bias.

Ultimately, ‘Rethinking Psychology’ calls for enhanced transparency in research, minimizing commercial influence, and establishing improved reproducibility standards in psychological studies.




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