Predictor of potential abuse: ‘High Criticism – Low Warmth’

Types of parenting styles and their effects on children

‘High in criticism’ and/or ‘low in warmth’ are phrases often associated with a problematic ‘parenting style’, which can have adverse outcomes for children – and if persistent can reach the emotional abuse threshold.

When you examine the attributes of an ‘emotionally abusive’ parent you might notice behaviours directed towards their children that include high levels of criticism and/or a lack of physical or emotional affection.

Children thrive better in situations where the family environment is low in criticism and high in warmth, and family environments can be unfavourable for children where there is high criticism and low warmth.

What ‘parenting-styles’ and related behaviours do your staff notice and learn about in safeguarding training?