Your parenting style has an impact on the parent-child relationship. Understanding your style can help you recognise the dynamics between you and your child.

When we speak of ‘parenting styles’, it’s the overall approach and strategies that you as a parent use to raise your children. Different researchers have proposed various parenting style frameworks, but one commonly referenced model is Diana Baumrind’s typology, which identifies four main parenting styles: authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, and uninvolved. Here’s a brief description of each.

1. Authoritative

This parenting style is characterised by parents who are responsive and demanding. They set clear rules and expectations for their children but also provide warmth, support, and open communication. Authoritative parents encourage independence, reasoning, and self-discipline while offering guidance and setting boundaries. They are generally nurturing, yet they also hold their children accountable for their actions.

2. Authoritarian

Parents with an authoritarian style are highly demanding and less responsive. They establish strict rules and regulations that children are expected to follow without questioning. Discipline is often strict, and punishments may be harsh. Authoritarian parents prioritise obedience and conformity over individuality and may not encourage open dialogue or negotiation.

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3. Permissive

Permissive parenting is characterised by parents who are highly responsive but have low demands and control. They are lenient with rules, often avoiding conflict or confrontation with their children. Permissive parents tend to be nurturing and indulgent, allowing their children considerable freedom and avoiding the use of discipline. While they may be warm and supportive, they may struggle to set boundaries or establish consistent expectations.

4. Uninvolved

This parenting style is characterised by parents who are both unresponsive and undemanding. They may be neglectful or disengaged from their children’s lives due to various reasons, such as personal issues, work commitments, or lack of knowledge about effective parenting. Uninvolved parents provide little emotional support or guidance and may not fulfil their children’s basic needs adequately.

It’s worth noting that these parenting styles are not mutually exclusive, and some parents may exhibit a combination of different styles in their approach to parenting. Additionally, alternative models and frameworks exist, highlighting additional parenting styles or variations within these four categories.

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