The effect of religion on parenting in order to guide parents in the way they parent: a systematic review

Abstract

Religion has a growing influence on parenting, and there remains a need to understand the influence of religious values in order to inform parents, and other professional bodies, on how religious beliefs can influence child-rearing practices. A systematic review was conducted to explore relevant articles during the time period 2004–2014. The aim of the review was to explore the effect of religion on parenting, and to establish effective ways in which religious parents can be guided in parenting. The findings show that religion does influence parenting, and that with intervention aimed at increasing specific skills, parenting practices may improve.