The Hidden Narrative of Intergenerational Transmission of Social Anxiety (A Review Study)

Abstract :

Social anxiety, one of the most prevalent psychological disorders among children and adolescents, often has roots deeper than what appears on the surface. The present study aims to explore the link between parenting styles and the intergenerational transmission of social anxiety through a systematic review of studies conducted over the past decade. This study utilized library-based and documentary research methods, with relevant articles retrieved from reputable scientific databases, including PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Quantitative data were analyzed using the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) software to provide a precise and coherent picture of the findings. The results revealed that parenting styles play a critical role in either fostering or mitigating social anxiety in children. Authoritarian and punitive parenting styles were associated with increased levels of social anxiety in children, whereas authoritative and responsive parenting styles were linked to a significant reduction in this disorder. Out of 102 articles reviewed, 18 were selected for in-depth analysis, and ultimately, 9 articles met the necessary quality criteria. The findings also indicated that social anxiety is associated with reduced self-esteem, increased anger, aggression, and difficulties in social relationships among children. This study underscores the importance of parental education in adopting healthy parenting practices and suggests that the prevention of social anxiety should begin within the family, where the hidden narrative of anxiety is often perpetuated across generations.

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