Being a parent is so great. Every child is different, in the same manner, all the parents and their style of parenting also. Every parent wants to use the best approach in handling their kids. There is a great variation in parenting from one parent to another. But at the same time, there is also a lot in common in their approach.
This is why researchers have tried to group parenting into four types. The parenting style varies in major four areas, discipline, communication, expectation, and nurturance.
In this article, I will discuss all four types of parenting and their effects.
1.Authoritarian.
In this style of parenting, strict rules have been established by parents. Children are expected to follow the set rules. Failing to do so will lead to punishment.
Authoritarian parents don’t explain the reason behind the set rules. They set high expectations for their kids. But on the other hand not so responsive to their kids. They want their child to show perfection in all the works they do. The children got punished very often. Sometimes the punishment even got harsh. Rather than teach children how they can make better choices, they made kids feel sorry for their mistakes.
Since authoritarian parents are often very strict. It may lead their kids to become good liars in order to avoid punishment. They may also become aggressive and develop self-esteem problems, as their opinions are never valued.
2.Authoritative.
Authoritative parents are responsible, and they set high and clear expectations. Like Authoritarian parents, they also set rules for their children and expect them to follow.
The difference is that in this style parents are responsive. They are willing to listen to their children. Authoritative parents are always available for their children. These Parents expect a lot from their children, but if they fail to meet those expectations rather than giving punishment, they provide warmth and forgive their children. Their disciplinary methods are supportive. They invest both time and energy in their kids. They use a positive approach like giving rewards, praising for good behavior.
Children raised with this style tend to be positive and successful in their approach. They become good at decision-making. They also think about the consequences of their action.
3.Permissive
Also referred to as indulgent parents, they make very few demands from their children. These parents are more responsive than they demand. Permissive parents are communicative with their children. They are quite forgiving. They encourage their children to share their problems. But never put the effort in discouraging their poor choices.
Children’s grow with this style are free to make their choices rather than be given the right direction. There will be no or minimum expectations set by these parents. These kids are more likely to be friends with their parents.
Being a friend with kids is not bad, but there should be a set rule for their approach. So that it will not harm their future.
4.Uninvolved.
As the name suggests this style of parenting is characterized by few demands, low responsiveness, and little or no communication. These parents provide everything to their kids. But have little knowledge about their children. Children don’t receive much guidance from their parents. They expect children to raise themselves. There is not any particular discipline approach is taken.
It is possible that the parents have some health issues or may not be able to care for the child’s physical or emotional needs. These kids show behavioral problems.
Notes:
Parenting a word in itself is very vast. Fitting it into one style every time is not possible. It is practical that in one area you tend to be permissive parents and other times you are authoritative parents. What matters most to raise a happy child. It is important to maintain a healthy relationship with your child, by establishing authority in a positive manner.