Parental Parenting Strategies In Preventing The Development Of Corrupting Language In Early Childhood

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the phenomenon of foul language acquisition in early childhood and identify parenting strategies implemented by parents in preventing and handling foul language behavior in Grumbul Kedung Raya, Dawuhan Kulon Village, Kedung Banteng District, Banyumas Regency. The study used a qualitative approach with a case study design involving five families as research subjects, selected through purposive sampling. Data collection was conducted through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation studies from October to December 2025. Data analysis used thematic analysis techniques that include data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing, and was strengthened by triangulation of sources, methods, and theories. The results showed that the most dominant foul language used by children were the words 'stupid', 'dog', and 'anjay', which were acquired through imitation mechanisms from peers, adults in the surrounding environment, and digital media content. Foul language tends to appear in conflict situations during play, negative emotional conditions, and minimal parental supervision. In responding to this phenomenon, parents apply four main strategies, namely: (1) positive language modeling, (2) religious and moral approaches, (3) positive discipline without physical punishment, and (4) consistent habituation of polite language behavior. Research findings confirm that the success of handling bad language does not rely on a single strategy, but rather on the consistent and continuous application of a combination of strategies in the family environment.