A wave of international concern is building as psychologists and child development experts warn that a commonly practiced parenting style, sometimes seen as “normal” or “strict,” can actually have lasting negative effects on children. According to a recent report in the New York Post, this approach—characterized by excessive control, harsh discipline, and a lack of emotional warmth—may undermine children’s emotional health and long-term wellbeing NY Post.
Parenting is a sensitive topic across cultures, especially as the foundations laid in early childhood often shape a person’s capabilities, relationships, and mental resilience. In Thailand, where cultural values around respect for elders and family hierarchy are deeply ingrained, the conversation on parenting practices is especially relevant. Traditional Thai parenting sometimes leans toward strictness and high expectations, echoing aspects of the style that experts are now cautioning against.
The type of parenting under scrutiny, commonly termed “authoritarian,” is distinguished by rigid rules, emotional distance, and punitive responses to mistakes. Experts contrast this with “authoritative” parenting, which balances firm boundaries with warmth and open dialogue. Global research consistently finds that children raised in authoritarian households are more prone to anxiety, low self-esteem, and difficulty regulating emotions—effects that may persist into adulthood American Psychological Association.
“Children need boundaries, but they also need to feel understood and supported,” explained a child psychiatry specialist at a leading Thai university’s faculty of medicine, speaking to the Bangkok Post. “A cold or overly punitive atmosphere can push them to hide their problems rather than learn how to cope with them in a healthy way.”
The report highlights that the roots of this “toxic” style often lie in parents’ own upbringing, social pressures, or misconceptions equating obedience and academic success with strict discipline. In Thailand, academic achievement remains highly prized, and a 2023 survey by a major public health institute found that nearly 45% of Thai parents describe their own approach as “strict” or “demanding.” While many believe this strategy builds character and resilience, evidence increasingly suggests the opposite may be true Ministry of Public Health, Thailand.
Research published in journals such as Child Development has documented that children exposed to supportive, communicative parenting not only perform better academically but are also less likely to develop depression or social anxiety. A senior psychologist with a Bangkok children’s hospital notes, “We see a higher risk of behavioral issues and mental health concerns among children from families where their feelings are routinely dismissed or punished.”
Internationally, studies have found similar results in diverse cultural settings, making the warnings globally applicable. For example, a 2022 meta-analysis from the journal Pediatrics reviewed more than 100 studies and concluded that both overly lax and extremely strict parenting styles increase the risk of emotional and behavioral disorders in children Pediatrics.
In recent years, Thai society has begun to rethink disciplinarian approaches, influenced by global movements on positive parenting. Several high-profile child abuse cases and increasing mental health awareness campaigns have sparked broader debate and government response. The Thai Department of Mental Health now recommends training programs for parents on “dialogue-based discipline,” emphasizing empathy, active listening, and constructive feedback.
Traditional beliefs remain powerful, however, especially in multigenerational households. A veteran school principal in the Bangkok metropolitan area notes, “Many families still believe that children need to be strictly controlled for their own good. Changing this mindset will take time and education.”
Cultural values such as respect for elders and group harmony play a significant role in shaping Thai parenting. Historically, filial piety and outward obedience were seen as key virtues. Yet, research increasingly suggests that emotional openness within families does not undermine respect; rather, it can strengthen it by fostering trust and mutual understanding.
Educational leaders point out that a shift toward positive discipline aligns with Thailand’s new national education goals, which prioritize critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and self-regulation rather than rote compliance. “We are working to equip parents and teachers with tools for nurturing—not just directing—children,” shared an official from the Ministry of Education.
Looking ahead, the future of Thai parenting may include more access to evidence-based workshops and resources, as well as a stronger partnership between schools and families. Recent pilot programs in Bangkok’s primary schools have shown promising results—students exposed to social-emotional learning and supportive adult role models demonstrated improved academic performance and fewer incidents of bullying.
For Thai parents, the key takeaway from recent global and local research is that warmth, empathy, and clear—but flexible—boundaries can yield the best outcomes. One psychologist at Chiang Mai’s foremost children’s mental health clinic recommends: “Ask your child how they feel when they make a mistake. Encourage discussion, not just discipline. Children thrive when they know they are loved and respected—mistakes included.”
As the conversation evolves, experts urge Thai families to reflect on their own experiences and cultural beliefs, while also embracing new approaches based on science and compassion. The best way forward, they say, is a blend of tradition with psychology-informed parenting—a balance that nurtures resilience, respect, and mental wellness for Thailand’s next generation.
Parents wanting to learn more can access free online parenting resources provided by the Department of Mental Health (link), and are encouraged to participate in local workshops offered by schools and community health centers.