Parenting Styles – What’s the Big Deal?
Didn’t know there were different styles of parenting? I’m glad you stopped by, this should only take a few minutes to read and you will find it helpful.
There are four main Parenting Styles, which one do you relate to most?
Authoritarian – you believe kids must always follow the rules, with no exceptions.
Your motto: My way or the highway (kid’s feelings don’t matter)
Problem: The child struggles with self-esteem issues because their views are dismissed. They tend toward being aggressive, carry anger toward their parents, and may rebel.
Authoritative – you have family rules, enforce them with consequences, and are caring toward your child’s feelings and opinions. You make time to build relationship with your child, while holding to the fact that parents are ultimately in charge. You work toward preventing behavior problems before they begin. Praise is always a part of acknowledging great behavior.
Your motto: Let me explain the reason for the rules
Problem: Yes, there will be problems! However, kids who have authoritative parents tend toward being responsible, respectful, and able to express their opinions well.
Permissive – you tend to let kids decide for themselves and rarely object. You have rules, but you don’t really enforce them.
Your motto: Kids will be kids
Problem: The child struggles with academics and may not regard rules or authority figures. Exhibits low self-esteem and sadness.
Uninvolved – you have few rules and silently hope that kids will raise themselves. You may even feel uncertain about what you’re supposed to do as a parent and because of that you rarely engage with your child.
Your motto: I don’t know
Problem: The child struggles with self-esteem issues, performs poorly in school, and has very low happiness levels.
While experts agree on these four prominent styles of parenting, most of us are a mix of each. Our circumstances change, like needing to be away at work more for a season, which leads to a more Permissive style, or, we are trapped inside with them during a storm or health pandemic and we find ourselves becoming Authoritarian to dominate and control.
Remember, Authoritative parenting is always our aim and produces the best outcomes for children and parents, producing positive and healthy relationships with your child while maintaining a good balance of discipline and consequences.
The beauty of styles is that we can always learn more and improve our parenting! Consider participating in a parenting class that goes into greater detail.
