This paper analyzes the multidimensional theme of parenthood in Arundhati Roy's The God of Small Things. It explores three generations of parents in the Ayemenem family and examines how parenting styles?including biological, adoptive, foster, and single parenting?shape the emotional, psychological, and social development of children. Through characters like Ammu, Pappachi, Mammachi, Baby Kochamma, Chacko, and Joe, the article highlights issues such as gender bias, domestic violence, emotional neglect, parent?child bonding, single motherhood, step-parenthood, and intergenerational trauma. The study shows how dysfunctional parenting leads to identity crises, emotional vacuum, and lifelong psychological scars for Rahel and Estha, while contrasting examples like Joe illustrate healthy, nurturing fatherhood.
Research Scholar, P.G. Department of English and Research Centre, Magadh University, Bodh-Gaya
