What Influenced Tonya Harding and her behavior? While it is quite evident that the troublesome figure skater Tonya Harding had a whirlwind life, there are numerous people who came into her life and encouraged the behavior and acts that Tonya portrayed throughout her life. Coming from a poor environment played a significant factor in Tonya's life. However, the people that shaped her to be the person she is today the most are Tonya's parents, LaVona Fay Golden and Al Harding. They had a tremendous mental and physical effect on Tonya's life. In particular, Tonya's mom played the leading role in why Tonya has behavioral problems. Growing up Tonya's mom would hit and beat her and call
