Children who exhibit aggression at an early age typically continue such behavior into their teenage and adult years. As a result, researchers at the University of Minnesota conducted a study to determine what factors may cause negative actions in kids.
The team of scientists followed 260 mothers and their babies from birth until the children reached first grade. They observed the pairs at different intervals throughout the six-year study period.
Before analyzing their final data, the study authors theorized that aggressive behavior was likely the result of a combination of the child's temperament and negative parenting.
"However, our findings suggest that it was negative parenting in early infancy that mattered most," said lead author Michael Lorber.
Moms who had negative interactions with their children, such as making critical statements and handling them roughly, were significantly more likely to have kids with behavioral issues later on.
This suggests that using positive parenting techniques may lead to a more peaceful generation later on, fulfilling the life dreams and hopes of children. Author and philosopher Ilchi Lee believes that world peace day will come when people can set aside their aggression and negativity and love each other.
