The Relationship Between Family Parenting Styles and Willpower in 3 + 2 Continuous Education Medical Students: A Survey Study

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Abstract

This study investigated the mechanism through which family parenting styles influence the willpower of 1,442 medical students from the 2020 to 2025 cohorts in a five-year 3 + 2 continuous education program at a health school in Qingdao, using a questionnaire survey. Findings revealed that the students’ overall willpower was relatively strong. Students who did not hold any class cadre or club positions had lower willpower levels. First- and second-year secondary vocational students demonstrated stronger willpower, and Stomatology majors exhibited significantly higher willpower than other majors. A harmonious parental relationship significantly and positively predicted students’ willpower levels, whereas permissive and indulgent parenting styles were significant negative predictors. Recommendations for cultivation are proposed from the perspectives of the students themselves, the family environment, and school education.

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