INFLUENCE OF PARENTING STYLES ON THE BEHAVIORAL OUTCOMES OF GENERATION Z

Abstract

Introduction: Two different parenting styles- authoritarian and permissive- were investigated in this study to determine how they influenced Generation Z’s behavioral patterns. In contrast to earlier generations Generation Z (born 1997-2012) are digital natives whose distinctive developmental trajectory is shaped by social media and technology. Despite the extensive studies on parenting, it is vital to comprehend how conventional parenting approaches mix with the contemporary digital environment to affect the behaviors of Generation Z in Pakistan. Objectives: Finding out how permissive and authoritarian parenting styles affected the behavioral outcomes (aggressive vs. self-confidence) of Generation Z students at Lahore Universities was the main goal. Methods: In this cross-sectional analytical study, 383 University students between ages of 20 and 24 participated. Pre-structured validated questionnaires measuring parenting styles and behavioral outcomes were used to interview participants. The method of non-probability purposive sampling was applied. Chi-Square tests were used to examine data using SPSS version 24 in order to identify correlations. Results: Total 383 responses were analyzed. 209(54.5%) of the participants said their parents were authoritarians, whereas 174 (45.4%) said their parents were permissive. Of those with authoritarian parents, just 59 (27.7%) shown great self-confidence, whereas 151 (72.2%) behaved aggressively. On the other hand, 85 (48.8%) of those with permissive parents showed sign of aggression, while 89 (51.1%) were self-assured. With a p-value <0.05 and a chi-square value of 21.980, there is a statistically significant correlation between parenting styles and behavioral outcomes. Conclusion: The results show that parenting styles have a significant impact on generation Z’s behavioral development. Aggressive behavior and low self-esteem are closely linked to authoritarian parenting indicating that the autonomy that digital natives cherish conflicts with strict supervision. Results from permissive parenting were more balanced but remained contradictory. The report emphasizes the need for parenting techniques that adjust to the digital world while striking a balance between authority and the independence that Generation Z demands.