A new article making waves online explores 11 subtle yet powerful indicators that a person was raised by a “high-quality parent”—those whose approach to parenting promotes not only emotional intelligence and confidence, but also an enduring sense of self-worth and resilience as children grow into adulthood. Drawing upon recent psychological research, the piece offers insights for Thai readers keen to reflect on their family experiences, or seeking to nurture similar strengths in the next generation (YourTango).
In today’s world, where the pressures of academic performance and societal expectations in Thailand can sometimes overshadow the softer qualities of upbringing, this report is highly relevant. Many Thai families continue to place a strong emphasis on hierarchical respect (ความเคารพ) and filial piety (กตัญญู), but increasingly, there is a growing recognition that warmth, open communication, and support for emotional development are just as important for long-term success (ResearchGate).
Key findings summarised from both the article and associated psychological literature reveal that high-quality parenting is less about strict control or academic tutoring, and more about cultivating a child’s self-confidence, adaptability, and authentic sense of worth. For example, one of the “rare signs” is being comfortable changing one’s mind. This trait, often underestimated, demonstrates adaptability and resourcefulness—qualities that, research suggests, are linked to parents who embrace empathy, allow autonomy, and accept their child’s individuality. When Thai parents permit their children to experiment with interests, make mistakes, and pursue passions, they set up a foundation for authentic living, rather than rigid conformity to tradition or prestige.
Another standout sign highlighted is that high-quality parents allow children to learn from their mistakes, rather than shielding them from the natural consequences of their actions. According to studies in child psychology, this approach helps children develop a “growth mindset”—the belief that abilities can be improved through effort and learning from setbacks (Frontiers for Young Minds). In Thailand, where saving face (รักษาหน้า) and avoiding public failure can be strong cultural imperatives, teaching children that mistakes are opportunities for learning may be both challenging and transformative.
Setting healthy boundaries at home is also mentioned as a critical indicator. The piece points out that truly effective parental boundaries are sustained by respect and empathy rather than fear or punishment. This is consistent with recommendations from the Child Mind Institute and echoed in Thai settings, where family harmony often prioritizes non-confrontational communication, but where open discussion of boundaries is still evolving.
In contrast to overbearing “fixer” parents, who micromanage every aspect of their children’s lives, high-quality parents foster independence by encouraging problem-solving. This balance of support and autonomy, sometimes described by psychologists as providing both “roots and wings”, is particularly poignant in Thai culture. The traditional value of staying close to family (‘familism’) may sometimes conflict with teens’ desire for independence, but research suggests that when parental support is unconditional, children ultimately feel more secure returning to the family home—and are more likely to freely seek parental guidance in times of trouble (BMC Public Health).
Further, children who were raised by high-quality parents are less likely to “demonize emotions”. Instead, these individuals feel safe to experience and express the full range of feelings—a fundamental aspect of emotional intelligence. Thai children, often socialized to suppress negative emotions or avoid conflict, can benefit from parents who model healthy emotional expression and validation.
Love and praise that are freely given, rather than conditional on achievements or obedience, is yet another sign. In contrast, “transactional” parenting, which is not uncommon in exam-driven Thai households, can lead to children who are constantly seeking external approval and fear parental withdrawal in the face of failure. Long-term studies, including those aggregated in global mental health journals, consistently show that children who receive unconditional support grow into adults with healthier relationships and higher self-esteem (Journal of Personality and Social Psychology).
Curiously, one “rare sign” is a lack of obsession with fame or external validation. Philosopher Alain de Botton posits—and psychological research supports—that children who chase notoriety are often compensating for unmet emotional needs in childhood. They may not have received sufficient encouragement to value their intrinsic worth, contrasting with children whose parents modeled acceptance and stability.
Several signs are more subtle but impactful: feeling genuinely happy to return home to family; not avoiding parents when in trouble; having a strong internal value system; and being encouraged to pursue personal goals without facing envy or resentment from the parental figures. These qualities, the article notes, accumulate over years, shaping future successes and relationships. In the Thai context, such traits can help young adults navigate the current pressures of work-life balance, intergenerational caregiving, and societal change.
The clinical evidence supports the real-world impact: a 2025 PubMed study found strong correlations between parental anxiety and child anxiety across cultures, showing that children of emotionally stable, mindful parents exhibit better psychological outcomes. This is especially relevant for Thai families, where the emotional climate set by parents may either reinforce or help break cycles of stress, especially around academic milestones like the GAT/PAT and O-NET exams (PubMed).
Expert opinions back these findings. Psychologist Zayda Slabbekoorn, writing for YourTango, notes, “Great parents… have the power to drastically impact their children’s well-being, relationships, and growth—in childhood and later in life.” In the same vein, child psychologists in Asia warn that a focus on rigid discipline and high expectations, without simultaneous emotional support, can unintentionally lead to children internalizing anxiety and fear of failure.
Historically, Thai society revered strict yet nurturing parenting—a model that has been challenged by youth advocacy groups and mental health professionals seeking a shift towards more democratic, communicative family dynamics. Initiatives like the Thai Health Promotion Foundation’s “Happy Family” campaign reflect efforts to promote parental warmth, dialogue, and positive discipline.
Looking forward, as Thailand continues to urbanize and families face new social and economic pressures, the relevance of high-quality parenting is likely to increase. Global trends point to a rise in dual-income households and the breakdown of extended family networks, making deliberate parenting choices even more critical for children’s holistic development.
To foster these rare signs in Thai homes, parents are encouraged to focus on open communication, model emotional intelligence, set boundaries with respect rather than fear, and offer love that is truly unconditional. For guardians, teachers, and policymakers, the call is to support these values through parent education programs, mental health awareness, and community resources geared for diverse family structures.
In summary, the power of high-quality parenting is undeniable—its influence extends beyond school grades or university entry, laying the groundwork for resilient, adaptable, and emotionally healthy adults. For Thai parents and their children—ไม่ว่าจะอยู่ที่ไหน (no matter where you are)—it’s never too late to grow together, one conversation and one choice at a time.
Sources:
- YourTango, “11 Rare Signs You Were Raised By A High-Quality Parent, According To Psychology”
- ResearchGate – Exploring Parenting Styles Patterns and Children’s Socio-Emotional Skills
- Frontiers for Young Minds, “Making Mistakes: Learning From the Past”
- Child Mind Institute – Healthy Boundaries
- BMC Public Health – Parenting Behaviors and Children’s Outcomes
- Journal of Personality and Social Psychology
- PubMed – Parental Anxiety and Child Anxiety