How a Parent’s Affection Shapes a Child’s Personality for Life
Those simple acts of warmth in childhood, like hugs, kind words, and gentle encouragement, may shape who we become well into adulthood. A study published in American Psychologist followed more than 2,200 British twins from birth to age 18 to uncover how maternal affection influences personality.
By studying identical twins raised in the same home, researchers could separate genetic influence from parenting.
The results were striking: the twin who received more warmth and affection from their mother consistently grew into a young adult who was more open-minded, conscientious, and agreeable compared to their genetically identical sibling.
These traits, curiosity, responsibility, empathy, and cooperation, are key predictors of success in school, careers, relationships, and overall well-being.
Interestingly, not all traits were shaped by affection. Extraversion and emotional stability appeared less influenced by parenting, pointing to a stronger role for genetics.
But when it comes to developing openness, responsibility, and kindness, parental warmth stood out as a decisive factor.
Lead researcher Dr. Jasmin Wertz of the University of Edinburgh emphasized that while genetics matters, even small differences in how parents express love can leave a lasting imprint on personality.
Everyday gestures of affection, reading bedtime stories, listening with patience, or offering a reassuring hug, are investments that ripple forward into adulthood.
This study is one of the clearest pieces of evidence yet that parenting in early childhood doesn’t just shape behavior in the moment, it helps mold the adults children become. The affection shown today builds the foundation for tomorrow’s resilient, responsible, and empathetic generation.
