What may result from extremely high performance expectations set by parents for their child?

Extremely high performance expectations set by parents for their child can lead to increased levels of anxiety and avoidance behaviors. When children feel they must constantly meet unrealistic or excessively high standards, they may experience a significant amount of pressure and stress. This pressure can result in anxiety about performance, fear of failure, and a reluctance to take on new challenges for fear of not meeting expectations. As a consequence, some children may avoid situations where they feel they could fall short, further exacerbating their anxiety and leading to potential negative outcomes in their emotional well-being and development.

Research in psychology supports the notion that high parental expectations, while sometimes motivating, can also create an environment where children feel inadequate if they are unable to meet those expectations. This dynamic can hinder healthy risk-taking and exploration, critical components of personal growth and development in childhood. Thus, the relationship between high performance expectations and a child’s mental health is well-documented, making the identification of anxiety and avoidance behaviors a likely outcome in such scenarios.