Abstract

Introduction: Regarding the effects of socio-economic factors on child upbringing, and the role of rearing methods on thought, behavior, and academic and social achievements, this study aimed to examine the influence of socio-cultural context on parenting style, academic achievement, and learning style in the city of Tehran.

Method: In a descriptive cross-sectional study, 240 eighth grade students (120 males, 120 females) from the southern, central, and northern parts of Tehran were selected using cluster multistage sampling. To assess the socio-cultural background, four demographic factors including place of residence, number of children, parents’ place of birth, and parents’ education were employed. The Parental Authority Questionnaire was used to assess rearing method. Also, learning style was assessed with Kolb’s Learning Style Inventory. Academic achievement was assessed using the grade average of final exams. Results were analyzed using statistical analysis of variance, Scheffe post hoc test, multifactor regression, and Pearson correlation test.

Results: The authoritative parenting style was more prevalent in city southern parts. There was positive and significant correlation between authoritative parenting style and higher academic grades. ANOVA showed that the authoritative parenting cultivate theorist learning style.

Conclusion: In families residing in Tehran, socio-cultural background is related to child rearing method. Families residing in the southern parts of the city use more authoritarian approaches. Child rearing method is also correlated with learning method and academic achievement of child- ren. Authoritative parenting appeared to cultivate “theorist” learning style and promote better aca- demic achievement.