Parental imprinting

Abstract Background Parental identity formation is rooted in childhood experiences and internalised relationships with one's family. The present study aims to investigate the possible correlations between the outcomes of experienced motherhood and the woman's internalised parenting style. Methods A retrospective observational study was conducted on an Italian sample of mothers enrolled through an online questionnaire administered from July to September 2022. The Parental Bonding Instrument was used, consisting of 25 items, 12 of which refer to caring (max score 36) and 13 to overprotectiveness (max score 39). From the combination of the scores calculated for the two dimensions, four possible patterns of maternal parenting style can be obtained (affectionate bonding, optimal parenting, controlling without affection, negligent parenting). Results The sample consisted of 1828 mothers (average age 38). Our sample shows that 15.54% of the women have a mother with an affectionate bond, 32% an optimal mother, 36.54% a controlling mother without affection and 15.92% a neglectful mother. Those who have an affectionate mother have a lower likelihood of developing depression (OR:0.6;C.I.:0.4-0.9).Those who have an optimal mother have a higher likelihood of breastfeeding (OR:1.3;C.I. 1.1-1.7).Those with a controlling mother without affection have a higher probability of suffering from anxiety (OR:1.4;C.I.:1.2-1.7).Those with a controlling mother without affection have a higher probability of suffering from depression (OR:1. 7;C.I.:1.3-2.1).Those with a neglectful mother have a higher probability of suffering from anxiety (OR:1.3;C.I.:1.1-1.7).Those with a neglectful mother have a higher probability of developing depression (OR:1.7;C.I.:1.3-2.3). Conclusions Our data shows the existence of a statistically strong correlation between the variables related to the psycho-emotional sphere and the four attachment patterns. Key messages • The parental imprint received has repercussions on various aspects related to one's motherhood and influences its events and outcomes. • Mental health is also influenced by the parental imprint.