What Are The Four Basic Parenting Styles

Parenting styles and tips
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Written By Poonam Singh

I am co-founder of toddlerjunction.com and Principal of Cambridge Montessori Preschool Bangalore.

Parenting styles are the ways in which parents raise their children. There are four basic parenting styles: authoritarian, permissive, neglectful, and authoritative. Each parenting style has different effects on children. Which one are you?

Authoritarian parenting

This father-knows-best and mother-knows-best parenting style include strict, non-traditional gender roles. Parents make choices for their children, and there’s very little room for negotiation. This parenting style is also sometimes described as military parenting.

Advantages:
-Can instill discipline in children
-Can promote academic success

Disadvantages:
-May result in children who are resentful and disobedient
-Can foster a negative relationship between parents and children

Permissive parenting

Permissive parenting is characterized by low expectations and high communication. Permissive parents do not demand good behavior from their children, but they do explain what they expect and why.

They encourage independence and allow their children to make decisions whenever possible. Permissive parenting is considered too lenient by some and can result in children who are spoiled and lack self-control.

Uninvolved parenting

Uninvolved parenting, sometimes called neglectful parenting, is a style characterized by a lack of responsiveness to a child’s needs. Uninvolved parents make few to no demands of their children and they are generally emotionally inaccessible.

While uninvolved parenting is not necessarily harmful, it can be if it persists over time. Children who grow up with uninvolved parents may have difficulty forming attachments, struggle in school, and have behavioral problems. It is generally thought that uninvolved parenting is the result of parents who are either unable or unwilling to meet their children’s needs.

Authoritative parenting

Authoritative parenting, characterized by parents who set moderate limits and expectations for their children, leads to children who are confident, competent, and able to regulate their emotions.

This is a more balanced approach to parenting where expectations are high but rules are flexible. Parents use reasoning and explanation rather than threats and punishment to encourage their children to behave. They provide firm guidance while still allowing room for independence, which bodes well for their future academic and professional success.

What Are The Four Basic Parenting Styles
Parenting Style

What is the best parenting style?

There is no one “best” parenting style, as every family is different and every child is unique. Different parenting styles have been shown to produce different outcomes in children. The type of parenting style that you choose will be determined by many factors, including your own childhood experiences, your cultural background, and your beliefs about what is best for your child.

Research shows that authoritative parenting is the most successful form of parenting because it provides structure and guidance for children while also allowing them the freedom to express their own opinions and ideas. Authoritative parents are able to set limits for their children while still being responsive to their needs; this type of parent is able to provide warmth and support without being overbearing.

The Benefits of the best parenting style

Children who are raised by authoritative parents are more likely to be independent, self-confident, and successful in school. They are less likely to get involved in drugs or alcohol or to engage in other risky behaviors. Authoritative parenting is sometimes also called “positive parenting” or “Right Way Parenting.”

The benefits of authoritative parenting extend into adulthood. Adults who were raised by authoritative parents are more likely to be well-adjusted and successful. They have strong relationships, and they are able to handle stress and setbacks effectively.

Parenting Style – Video

Reference:

Sanvictores, Terrence, and Magda D. Mendez. “Types of Parenting Styles and Effects on Children – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” Types of Parenting Styles and Effects on Children – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf, 18 Sept. 2022

I am co-founder of toddlerjunction.com and Principal of Cambridge Montessori Preschool and DayCare Kaggadasapura Branch. I am also a Montessori certified teacher and have 5+ years of experience working with kids.

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