What kind of parenting styles are there

Sometimes referred to as uninvolved parenting, this style is exemplified by an overall sense of indifference. Neglectful parents have limited engagement with their children and rarely implement rules. They can also be seen as cold and uncaring — but not always intentionally, as they are often struggling with their own issues. This rigid parenting style uses stern discipline, often justified as "tough love. Research suggests that authoritative parents are more likely to raise independent, self-reliant and socially competent kids.

While children of authoritative parents are not immune to mental health issues, relationship difficulties, substance abuse, poor self-regulation or low self-esteem, these traits are more commonly seen in children of parents who strictly employ authoritarian, permissive or uninvolved parenting styles. Of course, when it comes to parenting, there is no "one size fits all.

The most successful parents know when to change their style, depending on the situation. An authoritative parent, for example, may want to become more permissive when a child is ill, by continuing to provide warmth and letting go of some control e. And a permissive parent may be more strict if a child's safety is at stake, like when crossing a busy street e. At the end of the day, use your best judgement and remember that the parenting style that works best for your family at that time is the one you should use.

Francyne Zeltser is a child psychologist, school psychologist, adjunct professor and mother of two. She promotes a supportive, problem-solving approach where her patients learn adaptive strategies to manage challenges and work toward achieving both short-term and long-term goals. Your parenting style refers to the combination of strategies that you use to raise your children.

The work of Diane Baumrind in the s created one commonly-referenced categorization of parenting styles. The four Baumrind parenting styles have distinct names and characteristics:. These Baumrind parenting styles are United States-centric and it is not clear how well these styles describe parents cross-culturally. Each parenting style varies in at least four areas: discipline style , communication, nurturance , and expectations.

Are you wondering how to figure out your style? Permissive or Indulgent parents mostly let their children do what they want, and offer limited guidance or direction. They are more like friends than parents. Uninvolved parents give children a lot of freedom and generally stay out of their way. Some parents may make a conscious decision to parent in this way, while others are less interested in parenting or unsure of what to do. What is authoritative parenting? Authoritative parents are reasonable and nurturing, and set high, clear expectations.

Children with parents who demonstrate this style tend to be self-disciplined and think for themselves. This style is thought to be most beneficial to children. Few of us fit neatly into one single parenting style, but rather raise children using a combination of styles. Think of the four styles as a continuum instead of four distinct ways to parent.

Ideally, we think about our children and what they need from us at specific points in time. Or you might know an authoritarian parent who is nurturing, contrary to the description above. And of course, there are more influences on who children become than just parenting style. Today, new names for parenting styles are arising. Reflecting on where you fit on the spectrum of parenting styles can be helpful. Taking that one step further: know that any of us with any style at any point in time could benefit from the self-reflection that typically comes from participating in a parenting class.

Talking with other parents and a facilitator can be helpful and reassuring. So how can you ensure your parenting style is helping your child to thrive? Written by: Bright Horizons Education Team. Get our weekly newsletter for all things early child development—from the benefits of pretend play to at-home STEM activities, and teaching kindness—along with encouragement for every stage of your parenting journey.

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