Which of the 4 Different Parenting Styles Are You Using? A Guide to Parenting

As a parent, determining the right way to raise your child can be quite challenging. While there are different opinions and beliefs on the right way to parent, there are four unique parenting styles recognized by psychologists around the world. These include authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, and uninvolved parenting styles.

In this guide, we will explore each of these four different parenting styles, their characteristics, and how they impact the growth and development of children.

1. Authoritative Parenting

Authoritative parenting is regarded as the best parenting style in terms of creating a healthy parent-child relationship and producing well-behaved, confident, and self-reliant children. This style involves having clear expectations and guidelines, while allowing children the chance to express themselves and have some freedom of choice.

With authoritative parenting, children are supported and encouraged as they attempt new things, and their independence is promoted by steadily increasing their responsibilities. Feedback is given constructively, and parents provide a secure base for their children to explore from, enabling them to develop a robust sense of self-worth, a willingness to learn, and a willingness to take risks.

2. Authoritarian Parenting

Authoritarian parenting is known for its strict rules and regulations, demanding obedience without giving explanations. Parents who exhibit this style expect their children to follow set rules and guidelines without questioning, and harsh punishment is often used when these rules are broken.

While children raised under this style often perform well academically and follow rules, they may also develop low self-esteem and suffer from anxiety due to the lack of freedom, independence, and trust. In the long run, this may negatively impact numerous aspects of their lives, including their ability to form healthy relationships and succeed professionally.

3. Permissive Parenting

Permissive parenting is characterized by minimal rules and regulations, dwindling boundaries, and an overall reluctance to impose consequences for negative behavior. Parents adopting this style see themselves more as friends than authority figures, letting their children have more control over their actions and decision-making processes.

Kids raised under this style often become impulsive, lack self-discipline, and are unable to set limits. Even though they are known to be more comfortable with expressing their emotions and having higher levels of self-esteem, they can become vulnerable to peer pressure and have trouble dealing with life’s more significant demands.

4. Uninvolved Parenting

As the name suggests, these parents are less engaged with their children’s lives, paying little attention to their kids’ activities or concerns. They seldom prioritize their needs, and they may struggle to provide the necessary support required to shape and cultivate their development positively.

Children brought up under this style often develop low self-worth, poorly developed social skills, and emotional detachment. They may also be prone to behavior problems, academic difficulties, and poor impulse control.

In conclusion, parenting styles play a crucial role in the growth and development of children. While authoritative parenting is widely accepted as the most effective style, it’s crucial to take into account the various temperaments of different children and make adjustments accordingly.

Parents are encouraged to be loving, attentive, and proactive in the way they raise their children, providing care and support while promoting freedom, independence, and responsibility. In doing so, they can help their children lead happy, healthy, and successful lives. So, choose your parenting style carefully and set your children on the right path from an early age.