Impact of parenting on the development of chronic diseases in adulthood

Abstract The life course theory refers to a method developed in the 1960s that utilizes a multifaceted approach to evaluate people’s lives, structural contexts, and social change. Adversities in childhood are associated with a heightened risk of chronic illnesses in adulthood. Parents play an important role in developing self-esteem, self-confidence, and effective coping mechanisms in their children. We discuss the myriad adverse childhood experiences that may contribute to the development of chronic diseases in adulthood and offer several strategies aimed at mitigating the effects of adverse childhood experiences and educating parents about their responsibilities of nurturing and preparing a child for life.