The Influence of Permissive Parenting and Self-Concept on Cinderella Complex Tendencies in Senior High School Female Students: A Literature Review
Keywords:
Cinderella complex, permissive parenting, self-concept, female adolescents, senior high school studentsAbstract
The Cinderella complex, introduced by Colette Dowling, describes psychological dependence on external protective figures that may limit women’s independence and potential. Adolescent girls are particularly vulnerable due to identity development and gender-role socialization. This narrative literature review synthesizes seventeen studies published between 2021 and 2026 examining permissive parenting, self-concept, and Cinderella complex tendencies among female adolescents and young women, primarily in Indonesian and South/Southeast Asian contexts. The review distinguishes primary evidence from senior high school female students and supporting evidence from university and early-adult populations. Findings indicate that permissive parenting is positively associated with Cinderella complex tendencies, while self-concept is negatively associated. Together, these variables explain 32.2%–86.8% of variance across several studies, with self-concept emerging as the more consistent predictor. The review highlights gender-aware parenting education and cognitive restructuring counseling as potential interventions. Future research should employ longitudinal designs and more representative sampling to strengthen the evidence base.
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