The Impact of Parentification on Perfectionism and Self-Esteem Among Daughters in Indian Families

Abstract

While parentification has been extensively studied in Western contexts, limited research has explored its impact within Indian families, particularly on daughters. This study addresses that gap by examining the relationship between different dimensions of parentification—parent- focused, sibling-focused, and perceived benefits—and psychological outcomes such as perfectionism and self-esteem among Indian daughters aged 18–30. A sample of 159 participants completed the Parentification Inventory (PI), Frost Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (FMPS), and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES). Data were analysed using Spearman’s correlation and linear regression. Results revealed that parent-focused parentification was positively associated with perfectionism, while perceived benefits of parentification were negatively associated with perfectionism and positively associated with self-esteem. Sibling- focused parentification showed a weaker, inconsistent relationship. These findings suggest that the psychological impact of parentification depends not only on the caregiving role but also on how these roles are perceived, with positive interpretations serving as a buffer against maladaptive outcomes.