Contributions of childhood trauma and parenting styles in self-esteem of physically challenged adolescents in Southeast Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the contributions of traumatic childhood events and parenting styles in the self-esteem of physically challenged adolescents. Participants were 255 physically challenged children in 19 secondary schools in Abakaliki, southeast Nigeria. They consisted of 131 males and 124 females. Their ages ranged from 12 to 20 years (Mean age = 15.30, SD = 2.05). Results of a hierarchical linear regression revealed that those with less childhood trauma had higher self-esteem, accounting for 7% of the variance in participants' self-esteem. Authoritative style was positively associated with participants' self-esteem, while the authoritarian and permissive parenting styles did not significantly predict self-esteem. Individuals who had authoritative parents may have a stronger sense of self-worth due to their parents' engagement and support in what they do. The findings underscore the critical need to minimize children's exposure to violence, maltreatment, and abuse; as well as ensuring that negative child rearing practices are avoided.