Influence of Parenting Styles and Antisocial Behaviors in Minors Institutionalized at the Pedagogical Center El Carmen

Abstract

Objective: To understand the influence of parenting styles on antisocial behaviors among minors institutionalized at the Centro Pedagógico El Carmen, based on the perceptions and meanings shared by the participants. Method: A qualitative study with a narrative topic design was carried out through semi-structured interviews and focus groups conducted with eight institutionalized minors and five professionals from the psychosocial field. Results: The findings show that negligent and authoritarian parenting styles directly influence the manifestation of antisocial behaviors. In contrast, the democratic style, though less frequent, was associated with greater communication, the establishment of clear boundaries, and more stable family relationships, which were reflected in less conflictive behaviors. Conclusion: It is concluded that parenting styles exert a decisive influence on the behavioral development of minors. Negligent and authoritarian styles are linked to risk trajectories, whereas the democratic style is associated with more favorable family interactions and a lower tendency toward antisocial behaviors.