Delphine Dilichukwu UGWU2025-06-252025-06-252024-12Kate TurabiaM.Schttps://repository.lcu.edu.ng/handle/123456789/1008Positive parent-child relationships are crucial for child development. While research on this phenomenon is emerging in Nigeria, there remains a gap in understanding the predictive role of parenting style, cognition, and parental exposure to adverse childhood experiences, especially among parents of young children in Ibadan. This study investigates the influence of parenting styles, parental cognition, and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on parent- child relationships among parents of young children in Ibadan, Nigeria. The study utilized attachment theory and the theory of cognitive appraisal of stress to explain the phenomenon. This study addresses the gap by employing a cross-sectional survey using validated instruments to assess parenting styles, cognition, ACEs, and parent-child relationship quality. A multi-stage sampling was used to select participants and two hundred thirty-nine respondents were assessed. The mean age of the child was 6.42. 25% of the respondents were between the ages of 36 to 40, with 55.2% female, and 44.3% male. Results indicate that authoritative parenting significantly enhances parent-child relationships ( = .234; t = 3.226, p < .01), while authoritarian parenting has a negative impact ( = .316; t = 5.04,1 p < .01). Permissive and neglectful styles showed no significant association. Parenting cognition and ACEs were not significant predictors, suggesting complex underlying dynamics. Generational differences were observed, with younger parents reporting better relationship quality [F (3,235) = 3.18, p < .05]. The study underscores the importance of culturally sensitive parenting interventions and educational programs to foster positive parent-child relationships. Future research should adopt longitudinal designs and explore diverse cultural contexts to deepen our understanding of these complex dynamics. This research provides valuable insights into the interplay between parenting practices, cognition, and personal history in shaping familial bonds. Keywords: Parenting Styles, Parenting Cognition, Adverse Childhood Experiences, Parent- Child Relationships, Ibadan Metropolis Word Count: 281enParenting StylesParenting CognitionAdverse Childhood ExperiencesParent- Child RelationshipsIbadan MetropolisThesis