Your parenting style will have a large impact on your child’s life. Most of us copy the parenting style of own parents. Is your parenting style too harsh, too lax or just right?
Authoritarian
“Do it now, or else!” – Authoritarian, dictatorial parenting follows strict rules with plenty of punishment (often corporal punishment). Authoritarian parents expect kids to obey orders without question.
The result: Studies show that children who grow up in an authoritarian household show average (sometimes above average) performance in school but often lack social skills, self esteem and spontaneity.
Authoritative
“No means no.” – Authoritative parents have clear rules in the home. They are firm and offer structure without harsh punishment. They are firm about discipline but their disciplinary methods are supportive. Children are expected to be socially and morally responsible.
The result: Research shows that children brought up in an authoritative setting are cooperative and responsible.
Permissive
“Do what you want.” – Permissive or indulgent parents avoid confrontation and allow considerable self-regulation with their kids. They allow them to do whatever they want and do not demand responsible behavior. This was a popular parenting style in the 60s. Indulgent parents can be divided into two types – democratic (lenient yet engaged) and nondirective (bordering uninvolved).
The result: Studies indicate children with permissive parents are often more creative than the other groups. However they are also often more irresponsible because they lack structure and discipline.
Uninvolved
“I don’t care what you do.” – Uninvolved parents don’t demand anything from their kids and don’t really care what they do. These parents often reject or ignore their children, neglecting them.
The result: Children of uninvolved parents usually perform poorly in school. They aren’t often uncooperative and irresponsible.
