parenting style essay question

• Parenting Essay Topics Topics: 298
• Tourist Attractions Essay Topics Topics: 65
• Sports and Culture Paper Topics Topics: 104
• Basketball Paper Topics Topics: 58
• Football Topics Topics: 159
• Divorce Research Topics Topics: 142
• Baseball Topics Topics: 48
• Marriage Research Topics Topics: 262
• Dog Topics Topics: 94
• Fitness Paper Topics Topics: 110
• Online Dating Research Topics Topics: 48
• Family Relationships Topics Topics: 65
• Friendship Research Topics Topics: 104
• Foster Care Research Topics Topics: 60
• Athletics Paper Topics Topics: 70

102 Parenting Styles Essay Topics

🏆 best essay topics on parenting styles, 🌶️ hot parenting styles essay topics, 🎓 most interesting parenting styles research titles, 💡 simple parenting styles essay ideas, ❓ research questions on parenting styles.

• Parenting Styles’ Impact on Child’s Development
• Overindulgent Parenting Style and Its Harm to Children
• Parenting Styles – Case Study Analysis
• Parenting Styles: Indifferent, Indulgent, Authoritarian, and Authoritative
• Personal Experience of Child: Parenting Styles
• American and British Parenting Styles
• Types of Parenting Styles in a “Parenthood” by Howard
• The Uninvolved Parenting Style and Its Effect on the Psychological Development of a Child Approaches to parenting and child care can vary significantly based on the parents’ characteristics and their preferred style.
• Parenting Styles by Diana Baumrind This paper describes advantages and disadvantages of parenting styles generated by Diana Baumrind and its characteristics as well as the consequences for children.
• Parenting Styles Overview and Analysis This essay aims to describe parenting styles, reflect on the impact of my family’s upbringing approaches, and discuss how I plan to raise my children.
• Parenting Styles’ Impact on Children Parenting style plays a significant role in a child’s life. Each selected technique may have predetermined outcomes.
• Parenting Styles: Infancy and Early Childhood Generally, a child’s behavior is directly linked to the parenting approach being used by the respective parent. Each technique used has a corresponding impact on the well-being.
• Parenting Styles and Aggressive Adolescents Researchers have identified parenting styles that influence children’s growth and development. Parenting styles include authoritative, permissive, negligent, and authoritarian.
• Bullying and Parenting Styles There are many positive and negative outcomes of parenting on children. This paper aims at investigating the connection between several types of parenting and bullying behaviors.
• Parenting and Choice of Child-Rearing Style The child-rearing style applied to a child has an impact on the child’s growth and development. The style employed by the parents can predict the future character of the child.
• Nature vs. Nurture Parenting Styles in Psychology This research analyzes the nature vs. nurture parenting styles and recommends the best style that must be applied to ensure children grow to be responsible adults.
• Parenting Styles and Children’s Social Competence The social competence of children is usually associated with authoritative parenting of all parenting styles, in which parents balance the demands of the child and responsiveness.
• Diana Baumrind Theory of Parenting Styles Children exhibit behavioural characteristics depending on their upbringing. Diana Baumrind developed four parenting styles explaining children’s behaviour in specific situations.
• Differences in Parenting Styles in the East (China) and the West (America) The article discusses introduction in the essay “Differences in parenting styles in the East (China) and the West (America)” and argues that is short and straightforward.
• Childhood Attachment and Parenting Styles In social sciences and psychology, the term emotional attachment may refer to the process of understanding the expressive closeness.
• The Relationship Between Parenting Styles This paper provides an analysis of data pertaining to the relationship between parenting styles employed by a child’s parent.
• Types of Parenting Styles Analysis The parents’ attitudes to their kids create a certain emotional atmosphere, which is known as a “parenting style.”
• Dominant Parenting Styles: Gender-Differentiated Parenting Revisited In lower-middle-class American families, the authoritative parenting style is the most dominant. Authoritative parents impose high standards upon children.
• Parenting Styles Exemplified by the Molly Family In the current essay, the abovementioned four parenting styles will be considered, and four various answers on Molly’s desired behavior will be provided.
• Parenting Style and Bullying Among Children The investigation of parenting styles is highly essential to understand how they affect the bullying behavior of children to prevent it.
• Authoritative Parenting in Comparison to Other Styles There are four parenting styles: authoritative, permissive, neglectful, authoritarian. If I were to have children, I would associate myself with the authoritative parenting style.
• Parenting Styles in Situational Examples This paper examines different situational examples related to child-parent and assesses the parenting style of each of these situations.
• Parenting Styles: Values and Standards Transmission Numerous observations of children show that major developmental changes mostly occur during early childhood. It may be perceived by the parents in the form of imitation and observation.
• Parenting Styles Researching: Analytical Techniques This paper considers the use of the observational method for analyzing video recordings depicting parent-child interaction.
• Parenting Style Comparison: Positive and Negative Impacts Different parents use different styles to raise their children. These parenting styles have positive and negative impacts on the young infants and the adolescents.
• African American Parenting Styles According to Social Class
• Family Income, Parenting Styles and Child Behavioral: Emotional Outcomes
• Differences Between Chinese and Western Parenting Styles
• Parenting Styles, Prosocial, and Aggressive Behavior: The Role of Emotions in Offender and Non-offender Adolescents
• Pursuing the Same Goal Through Different Parenting Styles
• Authoritarian and Authoritative Parenting Styles
• How Parenting Styles Affect the Psychological Growth of a Child?
• Parenting Styles and the Chinese Tiger Mother: Why Chinese Mothers Are Superior
• Four Basic Parenting Styles Used by the 21st-Century Parents
• Parenting Styles and Their Impact on Children’s Behavior
• Relationship Between Aggression and Parenting Styles
• Parenting Styles and BMI: Are There Links Between the Two?
• Social and Emotional Factors of Parenting Styles
• Parenting Styles and Their Effect on Toddlers’ Emotional Development
• Evaluating the Most Effective Parenting Styles With Children: Positive Outcomes in the Home and Classroom
• Parenting Styles and Social Anxiety Among Adolescents
• Parenting Styles: What They Are and Why They Matter
• General Parenting Styles and Children’s Obesity Risk: Changing Focus
• Different Strokes for Different Folks? Parenting Styles
• How Parenting Styles Changed for Indian Immigrants?
• Parenting Styles and Parent-Adolescent Relationships: The Mediating Roles of Behavioral Autonomy and Parental Authority
• Authoritarian Parenting and Types of Parenting Styles
• Diana Baumrind’s Parenting Styles in Psychology
• Parenting Styles and Socioemotional Development in Middle
• Juvenile Delinquency and Parenting Styles
• Family Environment, Socio-Economic Status, and Parenting Styles
• Paternal and Maternal Parenting Styles
• The Advantages and Disadvantages of Harsh-Heart and Easy-Going Parenting Styles
• Children and Traditional Parenting Styles
• Parenting Styles Across Different Cultures
• Relationships Between Parenting Styles and Risk Behaviors in Adolescent Health
• Parenting Styles and Practices, and Their Impacts on Social Competence and Academic Achievement
• Psychological Insights Into Parenting Styles
• Different Parenting Styles and Child Rearing
• Pros and Cons for Each of the Four Parenting Styles
• How Parenting Styles Affect a Child’s Development?
• Parenting Styles and Children’s Classroom Performance Education
• Effective Parenting: Early Development, Various Parenting Styles and Discipline
• Parenting Styles, Perfectionist Tendencies, and Self Criticism
• Disciplining Children: Parenting Styles
• School Parenting Styles: East or West
• Parenting Styles and Children’s Social, Emotional, and Academic Development
• How Do Different Parenting Styles Affect Child Development?
• What Is the Most Important Thing to Remember When Choosing a Parenting Style?
• Why Is Research on Parenting Styles Important?
• What Are the Main Parenting Styles According to Diana Baumrind?
• How Does Culture Affect Parenting Styles?
• Are Biological Influences More Conducive to Development Than Parenting Styles?
• How Does Parenting Style Shape a Child’s Future?
• Which Parenting Style Is Associated With the Best Outcomes for the Child?
• What Are the Features of Authoritarian Parenting Style?
• Is There a Universal Best Parenting Style?
• In Which Parental Style Is There an Effective Balance Between the Rights of Parents and Their Children?
• What Is the Behavior of a Person With a Permissive Parenting Style?
• What Is a Uninvolved Parenting Style?
• What Parenting Styles Are Popular in Western Cultures?
• Which Parenting Style Is Most Likely to Produce Spoiled, Self-Indulgent Children?
• In Which Parental Style Do Parents Enforce Rigid Rules and Demand Strict Obedience?
• What Parental Style Is Long-Term Psychological and Developmental?
• Does the Parental Style Depend on Nationality?
• In Which Parental Style Do Parents Control Their Children’s Behavior in a Caring, Responsive Manner?
• Can Parenting Style Cause Autism?
• What Parenting Style Is Associated With High Self-Esteem?
• Which Parenting Style Has the Most Limitations?
• Should the Government Introduce Programs for Parents to Teach Them Parenting Styles?
• Which Attachment Style Would Be an Inconsistent Parenting Style?
• How Do Different Parenting Styles Differ From Each Other?
• What Are the Challenges in Different Parenting Styles?
• What Are the Advantages of an Authoritative Parenting Style?
• How Can a Parent Adapt Their Parenting Style to Meet Their Child’s Unique Needs?
• How Does Social Class Influence Parenting Styles?
• How Do Different Parenting Styles Balance the Needs of Parents With the Needs of Children?

Cite this post

• Chicago (N-B)
• Chicago (A-D)

StudyCorgi. (2022, October 26). 102 Parenting Styles Essay Topics. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/parenting-styles-essay-topics/

"102 Parenting Styles Essay Topics." StudyCorgi , 26 Oct. 2022, studycorgi.com/ideas/parenting-styles-essay-topics/.

StudyCorgi . (2022) '102 Parenting Styles Essay Topics'. 26 October.

1. StudyCorgi . "102 Parenting Styles Essay Topics." October 26, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/parenting-styles-essay-topics/.

Bibliography

StudyCorgi . "102 Parenting Styles Essay Topics." October 26, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/parenting-styles-essay-topics/.

StudyCorgi . 2022. "102 Parenting Styles Essay Topics." October 26, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/parenting-styles-essay-topics/.

These essay examples and topics on Parenting Styles were carefully selected by the StudyCorgi editorial team. They meet our highest standards in terms of grammar, punctuation, style, and fact accuracy. Please ensure you properly reference the materials if you’re using them to write your assignment.

This essay topic collection was updated on January 8, 2024 .

• Call to +1 844 889-9952

80 Parenting Styles Research Topics & Essay Examples

📝 parenting styles research papers examples, 🏆 best parenting styles essay titles, 🎓 simple research topics about parenting styles, ❓ parenting styles research questions.

• Infancy and Early Childhood Development - Psychology Psychology essay sample: Infancy refers to the period when a human being is aged between 1 and 12 months. Infancy is marked by rapid physical growth, which aids an infant’s new abilities.
• Children Behavior Changes Psychology essay sample: This paper improves the understanding on family dynamics that help in understanding the model of transition and child adjustment.
• Childhood Stages and Development Psychology essay sample: The dynamic systems theory of motor development states that a child’s maturation is tied to the development of gross and fine motor skills.
• Child Development: The Attachment Theory Psychology essay sample: The process of child development starts with infant-mother interrelation being the background of human inner world formation.
• The Development of Identity and Self-Concept Psychology essay sample: Although teens are more socially, psychologically, and biologically developed than toddlers, their behavior is often misaligned with the ethical and moral conduct of adults.
• Treating Adolescent Children Psychology essay sample: Among the many adulthood challenges, finding the right ways to treat adolescent children occupies a special place.
• Parenting Styles in Different Cultures Psychology essay sample: To understand the specificities of parents’ behavior that influence their children, it is vital to consider them in the context of selected countries and regions.
• The Difference in Child Rearing and Expectations for Boys and Girls Psychology essay sample: Child rearing practices and expectations for boys and girls are very high in the sense that several differences exist in upbringing of the two.
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Case Study Psychology essay sample: The case study about the patient with ASD will involve the identification of specific problems, the assessment of risk factors, and a review of models of abnormality.
• Bowlby’s Attachment Theory and Its Impact on Human Life Psychology essay sample: This paper aims at analyzing Bowlby’s attachment theory and its application in childhood, adulthood, romantic life, and the choice of parenting styles.
• The Influence of Parents on the Psychoemotional Development of Children Psychology essay sample: In the context of the influence of parents on the psychoemotional development of children, such aspects as parenting style, emotion regulation, and parental distress.
• How Can Attachment Styles Influence Children's Development Psychology essay sample: From a psychological standpoint, it is thought that the child's attachment style has a substantial impact on his or her development.
• Baumrind’s Parenting Styles Scenarios Psychology essay sample: Parenting is a rewarding yet challenging experience but there are plenty of resources and research available today to help parents deal with most if not all situations.
• Why the Nurture Approach Should Be Prioritized Over the Nature Theory Psychology essay sample: This essay explored how nurture is reflected in people’s everyday life and demonstrated how it could potentially influence the overall development of society.
• Parenting: a Dynamic Perspective Psychology essay sample: Problems, setbacks, disappointments, and mistakes are inevitable in life. Problems cannot be avoided, but how individuals respond after their occurrence shapes their lives.
• Blended Families and Their Functioning Psychology essay sample: Blended families undergo difficult moments during the transition process. The paper offers reliable data essential in analyzing the functioning of the family.
• Childhood Trauma and Attachment Theories Psychology essay sample: Childhood trauma is a life-threatening and violent event in a child's life. It significantly impacts a person's behavioral and emotional functioning.
• Personality Disorder: The Development of Antisocial Behavior Psychology essay sample: Antisocial behavior refers to a set of actions that result from a person's lack of the ability to respect other people's rights. Examples of these actions include setting fires.
• The Pros and Cons of Authoritative Parenting: The Balance Between Love and Discipline
• Teaching Responsibility Through Permissiveness: Encouraging Accountability in Children
• The Role of Technology in Uninvolved Parenting
• The Impact of Authoritative Parenting on Child Development: A Comprehensive Analysis
• Unpacking the Impact of Permissive Parenting on Children’s Development
• Uninvolved Parenting and Attachment Theory: Exploring the Emotional Impact on Children
• The Role of Authoritarian Parenting in Cultivating Resilience in Children
• Overcoming Uninvolved Parenting Patterns in Your Own Family
• Incorporating Authoritative Parenting Techniques Into Your Daily Routine
• Permissive Parenting and Emotional Intelligence
• The Influence of Attachment Parenting on Parent-Child Bonding
• Exploring the Cultural Differences in Parenting Styles Around the World
• The Evolution of Parenting Styles: From Traditional to Modern Approaches
• The Art of Mindful Parenting: Practices to Enhance Your Parent-Child Relationship
• Uninvolved Parenting: Recognizing the Signs and Seeking Support
• The Role of Communication in Permissive Parenting: Trust With Your Child
• Navigating Co-parenting Challenges With an Uninvolved Ex-partner
• Mindful Parenting: Integrating Mindfulness Practices Into Parenting
• From Theory to Practice: Real-Life Examples of Authoritative Parenting in Action
• Co-parenting Strategies for Divorced or Separated Parents
• Authoritative Parenting: What Research Says
• Navigating Challenges: Practical Tips for Implementing Authoritative Parenting
• The Ultimate Guide to Authoritative Parenting: Finding the Perfect Balance
• Authoritative Parenting vs. Permissive Parenting: Which Is Right for Your Family?
• The Impact of Neglectful Parenting on Children’s Mental Health and Behavior
• Parenting Without Guilt: Embracing Permissiveness Without Doubt or Regret
• Researching of Parenting Styles
• Finding a Balance Between Permissiveness and Authoritative Parenting
• Addressing Misconceptions About Authoritative Parenting
• The Impact of Permissive Parenting on Academic Success
• The Role of Communication in Engaged Parenting
• Single Parenting: Challenges and Strategies for Finding the Right Parenting Style
• Setting Boundaries With Love: A Closer Look At Authoritative Parenting
• Coping With Criticism: Addressing Judgment From Others as an Uninvolved Parent
• The Intersection of Parenting Styles and Child Discipline: Finding Effective Strategies
• Parenting in the Digital Age: Balancing Screen Time and Real-World Experiences for Children
• Parenting Styles, Academic Achievement and the Influence of Culture
• Authoritative Parenting Styles Around the World: A Cultural Perspective
• The Benefits of Permissive Parenting
• The Evolution of Parenting Styles
• The Rise of Uninvolved Parenting: A Cultural Shift in Modern Parenting Styles
• Finding Your Parenting Style: Tips for Transitioning From Uninvolved to Engaged Parenting
• How Helicopter Parenting Affects Children’s Independence and Self-Esteem?
• How Gender Stereotypes Shape Parenting Styles and Their Effects on Children?
• How Mindful Parenting Can Help Children Thrive Academically?
• Why the Importance of Setting Boundaries Mindfully With Your Children?
• How Technology Influences Parenting Styles and Family Dynamics?
• What the Real-Life Examples of Engaged Parenting in Action?
• How Authoritative Parenting Can Help Build Stronger Parent-Child Relationships?
• How to Introduce Mindfulness to Your Family Routine?
• Why Prioritizing Your Well-Being Is Essential for Engaged Parenting?
• How Authoritative Parenting Fosters Independence?
• What the Role of Mindfulness in Building Resilience in Kids?
• Why Giving Your Child Freedom Can Lead To Positive Outcomes?
• How Permissiveness Differs Across Generations?
• How Engaged Parenting Can Help Children Thrive in the Face of Adversity?
• How Mindful Parenting Can Enhance Your Child’s Self-Esteem?
• How to Navigate Uninvolved Parenting With Your Co-parent?
• Uninvolved Parenting vs. Hands-off Parenting: What’s the Difference?
• How Engaged Parenting Encourages Healthy Child Development?
• How Engaged Parenting Can Foster Discipline and Respect?
• How Practicing Mindfulness Can Help Reduce Parental Stress?

Cite this page

Select style

• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

PsychologyWriting. (2024, May 25). 80 Parenting Styles Research Topics & Essay Examples. https://psychologywriting.com/topics/parenting-styles-research-topics/

"80 Parenting Styles Research Topics & Essay Examples." PsychologyWriting , 25 May 2024, psychologywriting.com/topics/parenting-styles-research-topics/.

PsychologyWriting . (2024) '80 Parenting Styles Research Topics & Essay Examples'. 25 May.

PsychologyWriting . 2024. "80 Parenting Styles Research Topics & Essay Examples." May 25, 2024. https://psychologywriting.com/topics/parenting-styles-research-topics/.

1. PsychologyWriting . "80 Parenting Styles Research Topics & Essay Examples." May 25, 2024. https://psychologywriting.com/topics/parenting-styles-research-topics/.

Bibliography

PsychologyWriting . "80 Parenting Styles Research Topics & Essay Examples." May 25, 2024. https://psychologywriting.com/topics/parenting-styles-research-topics/.

• Bipolar Disorder
• Therapy Center
• When To See a Therapist
• Types of Therapy
• Best Online Therapy
• Best Couples Therapy
• Managing Stress
• Sleep and Dreaming
• Understanding Emotions
• Self-Improvement
• Healthy Relationships
• Student Resources
• Personality Types
• Sweepstakes
• Guided Meditations
• Verywell Mind Insights
• 2024 Verywell Mind 25
• Mental Health in the Classroom
• Editorial Process
• Meet Our Review Board
• Crisis Support

Why Parenting Styles Matter When Raising Children

Verywell / Laura Porter

• Limitations

Parenting styles are constructs used to describe the different strategies parents tend to utilize when raising children. These styles encompass parents' behaviors and attitudes and the emotional environment in which they raise their children.

Developmental psychologists have long been interested in how parents affect child development . However, finding actual cause-and-effect links between specific actions of parents and the later behavior of children is very difficult.

Some children raised in dramatically different environments can grow up to have remarkably similar personalities. Conversely, children who share a home and are raised in the same environment can grow up to have very different personalities.

Despite these challenges, researchers have posited that there are links between parenting styles and the effects these styles have on children. And some suggest these effects carry over into adult behavior.

The Four Parenting Styles

In the 1960s, psychologist Diana Baumrind conducted a study on more than 100 preschool-age children. Using naturalistic observation , parental interviews, and other research methods , she identified important dimensions of parenting.

These dimensions include disciplinary strategies, warmth and nurturing, communication styles, and expectations of maturity and control. Based on these dimensions, Baumrind suggested that the majority of parents display one of three different parenting styles. Later research by Maccoby and Martin suggested adding a fourth parenting style. Each of these has different effects on children's behavior.

The four parenting styles identified by Baumrind and other researchers are:

• Authoritarian parenting style
• Authoritative parenting style
• Permissive parenting style
• Uninvolved parenting style

Authoritarian Parenting

In this style of parenting, children are expected to follow strict rules established by the parents. Failure to do so usually results in punishment. Authoritarian parents don't explain the reasoning behind these rules, either. If asked to explain, the parent might simply reply, "Because I said so."

Other common characteristics include:

• While these parents have high demands, they are not very responsive to their children.
• They expect their children to behave exceptionally and not make errors, yet they provide little direction about what they should do or avoid in the future.
• Mistakes are punished , often quite harshly, yet their children are often left wondering exactly what they did wrong.

Baumrind says these parents "are obedience- and status-oriented, and expect their orders to be obeyed without explanation." They are often described as domineering and dictatorial. Their approach is "spare the rod, spoil the child." They expect children to obey without question.

Effects of Authoritarian Parenting

Authoritarian parenting styles generally lead to obedient and proficient children but can also lead to increased anxiety , lower self-reliance, and reduced intrinsic motivation . Children may also be more likely to lie to avoid punishment.

Authoritative Parenting

Like authoritarian parents, those with an authoritative parenting style establish rules and guidelines that their children are expected to follow. However, this parenting style is much more democratic.

Here are a few common characteristics of the authoritative parenting style:

• Authoritative parents are responsive to their children and willing to listen to questions.
• These parents expect a lot of their children but also provide warmth, feedback, and adequate support.
• When children fail to meet expectations , these parents are more nurturing and forgiving than punishing.

According to Baumrind, authoritative parents are good at setting standards and monitoring their children's behavior. Their disciplinary methods are assertive and supportive rather than intrusive, restrictive, or punitive.

For authoritative parents, the goal is to raise children who are socially responsible, cooperative, and self-regulated. The combination of expectation and support helps children of authoritative parents develop skills such as independence, self-control, and self-regulation. 

Effects of Authoritative Parenting

Authoritative parenting styles tend to result in happy, capable, and successful children. Studies also show that these children often have higher levels of life satisfaction when they get older.

Permissive Parenting

Permissive parents , sometimes referred to as indulgent parents, make very few demands of their children. These parents rarely discipline their children because they have relatively low expectations of maturity and self-control.​

Other common characteristics of permissive parenting are:

• Permissive parents prioritize being their child's friend rather than being a parent.
• They are warm and attentive but tend to set few rules, rarely enforce rules, and have few expectations.
• They allow their children to make their own decisions. 

According to Baumrind, permissive parents are responsive to their children but not demanding. Because they do not expect mature behavior from their children, kids may struggle to set limits for themselves.

Permissive parents are generally nurturing and communicative with their children, often taking on the status of a friend more than a parent. On the positive side, this can help kids become more self-sufficient and independent. On the downside, it can contribute to poor self-regulation .

Effects of Permissive Parenting

Permissive parenting often results in children who rank low in happiness and self-regulation. These children are more likely to engage in high-risk behaviors and tend to perform poorly in school.

Uninvolved Parenting

In addition to the three major styles introduced by Baumrind, psychologists Eleanor Maccoby and John Martin proposed a fourth style: uninvolved or neglectful parenting. An uninvolved parenting style is characterized by few demands, low responsiveness, and very little communication.

Other characteristics of the uninvolved parenting style include:

• While these parents fulfill the child's basic needs, they are generally detached from their child's life.
• They might ensure that their kids are fed and have shelter but offer little to nothing in the way of guidance, structure, rules, or even support.
• These parents may seem indifferent, unresponsive, and dismissive.
• In some cases, these parents may reject or neglect the needs of their children. They may also be physically or emotionally abusive .

A 2019 study found that children raised by neglectful parents tend to struggle in school, experience more depression, have worse social relationships, have difficulty controlling their emotions, and experience more anxiety.

Effects of Uninvolved Parenting

Uninvolved parenting styles rank lowest across all life domains. These children tend to lack self-control , have higher rates of delinquency, and poorer self-reliance.

What's Your Parenting Style?

This fast and free parenting style quiz can help you analyze the methods you're using to parent your kids and whether or not it may be a good idea to learn some new parenting behaviors:

The Impact of Parenting Styles

Research suggests that parenting styles can have a range of effects on children. Some areas of a child's life that may be affected, whether in the present or the future, include:

• Academics : Parenting styles can play a part in academic achievement and motivation.
• Mental health : Parenting styles can also influence children's mental well-being . Kids raised by authoritarian, permissive, or uninvolved parents tend to experience more anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems.
• Self-esteem : Kids raised by parents with an authoritative style tend to have stronger self-esteem than kids raised by parents with other styles.
• Social relationships : Parenting styles can impact how kids relate to other people. For example, kids raised by permissive parents are more likely to be bullied, while kids raised by authoritarian parents are more likely to bully others .
• Adult relationships : Researchers have also found that kids raised by strict, authoritarian parents may be more likely to experience emotional abuse in adult romantic relationships .

Mixing Parenting Styles

The parenting styles of individual parents also combine to create a unique blend in each family. For example, the mother may display an authoritative style, while the father favors a more permissive approach. This can sometimes lead to mixed signals.

To create a cohesive approach to parenting, parents must learn to cooperate and combine their unique parenting styles.

Advantages of Authoritative Parenting

Because authoritative parents are more likely to be viewed as reasonable, fair, and just, their children are more likely to comply with their parents' requests. Also, because these parents provide rules as well as explanations for these rules, children are much more likely to internalize these lessons.

Rather than simply following the rules because they fear punishment (as they might with authoritarian parents), the children of authoritative parents are able to see why the rules exist, understand that they are fair and acceptable, and strive to follow these rules to meet their own internalized sense of what is right and wrong.

Get Advice From The Verywell Mind Podcast

Hosted by therapist Amy Morin, LCSW, this episode of The Verywell Mind Podcast shares what mentally strong parents do.

Follow Now : Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Google Podcasts

Can You Change Your Parenting Style?

If you notice that you tend to be more authoritarian, permissive, or uninvolved, there are steps you can take to adopt a more authoritative parenting style. Strategies that may help include:

• Listen : Spend time listening to what your child has to say. Let them share their opinions, ideas, and worries with you. 
• Establish rules : Create a clear set of rules for your household and communicate your expectations to your child. In addition to telling your child what the rules are, explain why these rules exist.
• Consider your child's input : Authoritative parents set the rules but are also willing to listen to their child's feelings and consider them when making decisions.
• Be consistent : Enforce rules consistently, but be sure to provide consequences that are fair, proportionate, and educational. 

Developing a more authoritative parenting style takes time. With practice and consistent effort, however, you will find that your approach to parenting gradually shifts to a more supportive, involved approach that can lead to better developmental outcomes.

Limitations of Parenting Style Research

Links between parenting styles and behavior are based on correlational research , which is helpful for finding relationships between variables . However, such research cannot establish definitive cause-and-effect relationships.

While there is evidence that a particular parenting style is linked to a specific pattern of behavior, other variables, such as a child's temperament, can also play a significant role.

Children May Affect Their Parents' Styles

There is also evidence that a child's behavior can impact parenting styles. One study found that when a child misbehaves, a parent's response tends to be more variable. An interpretation of this result is that kids might misbehave not because their parents were too permissive but because parents of difficult or aggressive children gave up on trying to control their kids.

Outcomes Vary

The correlations between parenting styles and behaviors are sometimes weak, so the expected child outcomes do not materialize. For example, parents with authoritative styles may have children who are defiant or engage in delinquent behavior. Parents with permissive styles may also ave self-confident and academically successful children.

Cultural Factors Play a Role

Cultural factors also play a significant role in parenting styles and child outcomes. There isn't a universal style of parenting that is always best. For example, while authoritarian parenting is associated with poorer academic achievement, this effect is less pronounced in Hispanic families.

Final Thoughts

Parenting styles are associated with different child outcomes, and the authoritative style is generally linked to positive behaviors such as strong self-esteem and self-competence. However, other important factors—including culture, children's temperament , children's perceptions of parental treatment, and social influences—also play an important role in children's behavior.

Understanding more about your parenting style can help you explore different approaches to parenting your children. If you notice that you tend to have a more strict, indulgent, or dismissive approach, there are steps that you can take to become more involved and authoritative in how you relate to your children.

Baumrind D. Child care practices anteceding three patterns of preschool behavior . Genet Psychol Monogr. 1967;75(1):43-88.

Louis JP. The Young Parenting Inventory (YPI-R3), and the Baumrind, Maccoby and Martin parenting model: Finding common ground . Children . 2022;9(2):159. doi:10.3390/children9020159

Arafat Y, Akter H, Islam A, Ali Shah M, Kabir R. Parenting: Types, effects and cultural variation . Asian J Ped Res . 2020;3(3):32-36. doi:10.9734/AJPR/2020/v3i330130

Lavrič M, Naterer A. The power of authoritative parenting: A cross-national study of effects of exposure to different parenting styles on life satisfaction . Child Youth Serv Rev . 2020;116:105274. doi:10.1016/j.childyouth.2020.105274

Jinnah HA, Stoneman Z. Influence of permissive parenting on youth farm risk behaviors . J Agromed . 2016;21(3):244-252. doi:10.1080/1059924X.2016.1179610

Pinquart M. Associations of parenting styles and dimensions with academic achievement in children and adolescents: a meta-analysis . Ed Psychol Rev . 2016;28:475-493. doi:10.1007/s10648-015-9338-y

Kuppens S, Ceulemans E. Parenting styles: A closer look at a well-known concept .  J Child Fam Stud . 2019;28(1):168-181. doi:10.1007/s10826-018-1242-x

Power TG. Parenting dimensions and styles: a brief history and recommendations for future research .  Child Obes . 2013;9 Suppl(Suppl 1):S14–S21. doi:10.1089/chi.2013.0034

Alizadeh Maralani F, Mirnasab M, Hashemi T. The predictive role of maternal parenting and stress on pupils' bullying involvement .  J Interpers Violence . 2019;34(17):3691-3710. doi:10.1177/0886260516672053

Beyarslan SD, Uzer T. Psychological control and indulgent parenting predict emotional-abuse victimization in romantic relationships . Curr Psychol . 2022;41(8):5532-5545. doi:10.1007/s12144-020-01072-w

Bi X, Yang Y, Li H, Wang M, Zhang W, Deater-deckard K. Parenting styles and parent-adolescent relationships: the mediating roles of behavioral autonomy and parental authority . Front Psychol . 2018;9:2187. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2018.02187

Lunkenheimer E, Lichtwarck-Aschoff A, Hollenstein T, Kemp CJ, Granic I. Breaking down the coercive cycle: How parent and child risk factors influence real-time variability in parental responses to child misbehavior . Parenting . 2016;16(4):237-256. doi:10.1080/15295192.2016.1184925

Pinquart M, Kauser R. Do the associations of parenting styles with behavior problems and academic achievement vary by culture? Results from a meta-analysis . Cult Div Ethnic Minor Psychol . 2018;24(1):75-100. doi:10.1037/cdp0000149

Benson JB, Haith MM. Social and Emotional Development in Infancy and Early Childhood .

Macklem GL. Practitioner's Guide to Emotion Regulation in School-Aged Children .

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Raising Kids
• Parenting Advice

What Is Your Parenting Style, and Why Does It Matter?

From authoritarian to authoritative, permissive to neglectful, we're breaking down different types of parenting styles. Which one do you practice? 

Authoritarian Parenting

Permissive parenting, authoritative parenting, neglectful or uninvolved parenting, sub-types of parenting styles.

Your parenting style can affect everything from your child's self-esteem to their academic success. It's important to ensure your parenting style supports healthy growth and development because the way you interact with your child—and how you discipline them— will influence them for the rest of their life. 

Researchers have identified four main types of parenting styles that take a unique approach to raising children:

• Authoritarian
• Authoritative

People often want to know which parenting style they're using, and which one is the best overall. The truth is that there's no one right way to parent, but the general parenting style that most experts, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), recommend is an authoritative approach.

Read on to learn the difference between these four major parenting styles (there are also newer parenting styles that have gained traction, including free-range and conscious parenting ), with information about popular subtypes like helicopter parenting, free-range parenting, tiger parenting, and more.

Baumrind's Four Parenting Styles

In the 1960s, developmental psychologist Diana Baumrind described three distinct parenting styles—authoritarian, authoritative, and permissive—based on parental demands and responsiveness to children. A fourth style, neglectful, was added later based on work by other researchers.

Do any of these statements sound like you?

• You believe kids should be seen and not heard.
• When it comes to rules, you believe it's "my way or the highway."
• You don't take your child's feelings into consideration.
• You've uttered the words "because I said so" when a child questions the reasons behind a rule.

If any of those ring true, you might be an authoritarian parent. The authoritarian style of parenting focuses on strict rules, obedience, and discipline. These parents have high expectations, and they don't hesitate to punish when children don't follow their guidelines.

Authoritarian parents take over the decision-making power, rarely giving children any input in the matter. Similar to an army drill sergeant, authoritarian parents are not nurturing, lenient, or communicable. They make the rules and enforce the consequences with little regard for a child's opinion.

How authoritarian parenting affects children

When raised by an authoritarian parent, children are often well-behaved at home, but they may rebel when with classmates or friends. Kids may also struggle with the following:

• Social skills
• Indecisiveness and trouble thinking on their own
• Low self-esteem
• Poor judge of character
• Anger management and resentfulness
• Hostility and aggression

Some research also indicates that children whose parents were authoritarian reported more substance use and higher instances of depression.

• You set rules but rarely enforce them.
• You don't give out consequences very often.
• You think your child will learn best with little interference from you.
• You let your children do what they want—even if it's drinking soda at every meal.

If those statements sound familiar, you might practice permissive parenting . Permissive parents are lenient, only stepping in when there's a serious problem. They're quite forgiving and they adopt an attitude of "kids will be kids." Oftentimes they act more like friends than authoritative figures.

Permissive parents cater to their children's needs without giving out much discipline . When they do use consequences, they may not stick. For example, they'll give privileges back if a child begs, or they may allow a child to get out of time-out early if they promise to be good. Permissive parents are the total opposite of strict.

How permissive parenting affects children

Since they have a high standing in the household, children of permissive parents are accustomed to getting whatever they want. They may exhibit more behavioral problems as they don't appreciate authority and rules.

Other downsides of the permissive parenting style can include:

• Lack of responsibility
• Difficulty with decision-making
• Impulsiveness and aggressiveness
• Lack of independence and personal responsibility
• Anxiety and depression
• Academic struggles

Kids who are parented permissively often act entitled, egocentric, and selfish. These children might also fail to put effort into school, work, or social endeavors since they don't have to put in any effort at home.

Additionally, kids raised by permissive parents are at a higher risk for health problems, like obesity , because permissive parents struggle to limit unhealthy food intake or promote regular exercise or healthy sleep habits. They're more likely to have dental cavities because permissive parents often don't enforce good habits, like ensuring a child brushes their teeth.

The "Gold Standard" Parenting Style

Experts consider authoritative parenting to be the most developmentally healthy and effective parenting style. Research has found kids who have authoritative parents are most likely to become confident, responsible adults who feel comfortable self-advocating and expressing their opinions and feelings.

• You put a lot of effort into creating and maintaining a positive relationship with your child.
• You explain the reasons behind your rules.
• You set limits, enforce rules, and give consequences, but also consider your child's feelings. 
• You use positive discipline strategies such as praise and rewards.

If those statements sound familiar, you might practice authoritative parenting , which is considered to be the "gold standard" parenting style. Authoritative parents provide their children with rules and boundaries, but they also give them the freedom to make decisions.

With an authoritative parenting style, parents validate their children's feelings while also making it clear that the adults are ultimately in charge. They invest time and energy into preventing behavior problems before they start. They also use positive discipline strategies , like praise and reward systems, to reinforce positive behavior.

Authoritative parents view mistakes as a learning experience, and they have clear expectations for their children. They're nurturing and warm, yet they instill the importance of responsibility and discipline.

How authoritative parenting affects children

Children raised with authoritative parenting tend to be happy, confident, and successful. They're also more likely to make sound decisions and evaluate safety risks on their own. Authoritative parenting is linked to academic achievement, heightened self-esteem, and resiliency.

Kids with authoritative parents tend to have the following positive outcomes:

• Close, nurturing relationships with parents
• Tendency to be responsible and respectful
• Ability to manage their aggression
• High degrees of self-esteem, self-confidence , and self-regulation
• More likely to be happy and successful
• Ability to clearly express their emotions

Kids who are parented authoritatively can be trusted to make the right decision on their own, and they often set high expectations for themselves. These children may also perform well academically and socially, and they're less likely to misuse drugs or alcohol.

Do any of these statements sound familiar?

• You don't ask your child about school or homework.
• You rarely know where your child is or who they're with.
• You don't spend much time with your child.
• You don't have many rules and expectations.

If those statements sound familiar, you might be an uninvolved or neglectful parent. Essentially, neglectful parents ignore their children, who receive little guidance, nurturing, and parental attention. They don't set rules or expectations, and they tend to have minimal knowledge about what their children are doing.

Uninvolved parents expect children to raise themselves. They don't devote much time or energy to meeting children's basic needs. At times, uninvolved parents lack knowledge about child development—or they may believe that their child will do better without their oversight.

Uninvolved parents may be neglectful but it's not always intentional. A parent with mental health issues or substance abuse problems, for example, may not be able to care for a child's physical or emotional needs consistently.

How uninvolved parenting affects children

Without any guidance, structure, or parental involvement, children of neglectful parents often act out. Research has found that kids with uninvolved parents have the worst outcomes, and they're more likely to experience the following:

• Substance use
• Rebelliousness
• Delinquency (vandalism, assault, rape, petty theft)
• Lower cognitive and emotional empathy
• Diminished self-esteem

Children of uninvolved parents might, for example, get in trouble at school or with the law. In addition, they might hesitate to form bonds with other people and exhibit depression. Academic performance and social competence often suffer.

Getty Images / Shaw Photography Co.

Of course, there are plenty of parenting style subtypes, including the following

Free-range parenting

Helicopter parenting, snowplow parenting, lighthouse parenting, attachment parenting, tiger parenting.

Free-range parents give their children the independence of being less supervised or unsupervised in public. For a long time, parents who practiced this style were considered neglectful, and many thought they endangered their kids.

But more recently (and after much debate) states like Utah passed laws in favor of the hands-off parenting style. Specifically, Utah changed the definition of neglect so it doesn't include certain independent childhood activities like walking to school and playing outside. Proponents say it can instill amazing qualities like self-sufficiency and resilience.

If you're an overprotective parent who feels the need to control most aspects of your child's life, you likely fit the bill of a helicopter parent . Helicopter parents constantly intervene in their kid's life, and they obsess about successes and failures.

The risk-assessing tendencies of helicopter parents are often driven by fear and anxiety. Parents who intervene in this way can hinder a child's ability to learn integral life skills, confidence, and self-sufficiency. Research by the American Psychological Association found that kids who experience helicopter parenting are less likely to be able to manage their emotions and behavior.

Snowplow parents (also known as lawnmower or bulldozer parents) are willing to drop everything to fulfill their child's wants and demands, no matter how small. They essentially "plow down" anything standing in their child's way.

These types of parents often have good intentions and don't want their children to experience struggle. However, their habits don't provide a foundation for long-term happiness, and they can worsen a child's anxiety about failure. An extreme example of snowplow parenting involves the college admissions scandal , where numerous high-profile celebrity parents were convicted of bribing colleges to admit their children.

One of the more balanced methods of parenting, the lighthouse approach was coined by pediatrician and author Kenneth Ginsburg, MD. In his book, Raising Kids to Thrive: Balancing Love With Expectations and Protection With Trust, Dr. Ginsburg writes: "We should be like lighthouses for our children. Stable beacons of light on the shoreline from which they can measure themselves against."

The lighthouse parenting style involves finding the perfect balance between loving, protecting, communicating, and nurturing your child. Parents seek to guide and support their children, much like a lighthouse does.

Attachment parenting involves a nurturing and hands-on approach. These parents think that putting a child's needs first leads to independence and emotional stability. Parents who follow this style value physical closeness, bed-sharing and co-sleeping, extended breastfeeding , positive discipline, and other attachment-based approaches to raising children.

A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found an association between sensitive-responsive parenting and children’s language skills. Specifically, kids of parents with higher levels of responsiveness and warmth had more than two times better language skills than children whose parents were less responsive. On the other hand, this parenting style is demanding and can sometimes feel out of balance when parents are less flexible in their approach.

Often displaying rigid and harsh characteristics, tiger parents expect obedience and success. This term gained mainstream attention due to Amy Chua's book, Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mom , where she describes tiger parenting as an authoritarian method commonly used in Chinese culture.

Some research has found a correlation between tiger parenting and anxiety in children , possibly due to their parent's high demands and constant expectations for perfection.

Additional reporting by Amy Morin, LCSW  

Parenting and Boundary Setting: Pediatric Mental Health Minute Series . American Academy of Pediatrics .

Parenting Styles: A Closer Look at a Well-Known Concept .  J Child Fam Stud. 2019.

Psychosocial consequences of parenting .  IOSR J Hum Soc Sci . 2016.

Types of Parenting Styles and Effects On Children .  StatPearls  [Internet]. Updated 2022.

Role of parenting styles in adolescent substance use: results from a Swedish longitudinal cohort study . BMJ Open.  2016.

Authoritarian parenting and youth depression: Results from a national study .  Journal of Prevention & Intervention in the Community.  2016.

Role of Parenting Style in Children’s Behavioral Problems through the Transition from Preschool to Elementary School According to Gender in Japan . Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health . 2019.

Parenting Styles: A Closer Look at a Well-Known Concept .  J Child Fam Stud . 2019.

Consequences of parenting on adolescent outcomes .  Societies . 2014.

Psychosocial Consequences of Parenting . IOSR Journal Of Humanities And Social Science . 2016.

Helicopter Parenting May Negatively Affect Children’s Emotional Well-Being, Behavior . American Psychological Association . 2018.

Investigations of College Admissions and Testing Bribery Scheme . United States Attorney's Office . Updated 2023.

Parenting Behavior and Child Language: A Meta-analysis . American Academy of Pediatrics . 2019.

The moderating effects of positive psychological strengths on the relationship between tiger parenting and child anxiety . Children and Youth Services Review . 2018.

Related Articles

Home — Essay Samples — Life — Family — Parenting Styles

Essays on Parenting Styles

As a pivotal aspect of developmental psychology, understanding the impact of various parenting approaches on child development is crucial. These essays serve as exemplary models for students, offering insights into authoritarian, permissive, authoritative, and uninvolved parenting styles, among others.

The Influence of Parenting ... Read More As a pivotal aspect of developmental psychology, understanding the impact of various parenting approaches on child development is crucial. These essays serve as exemplary models for students, offering insights into authoritarian, permissive, authoritative, and uninvolved parenting styles, among others. The Influence of Parenting Styles on Child Development

Our essays delve into the psychological theories that underpin different parenting styles and their respective outcomes on children’s behavior, emotional well-being, and academic achievement . Students can explore the nuances of how each parenting approach fosters unique traits in children, from independence and self-esteem to obedience and self-regulation.

Cultural Perspectives on Parenting

Recognizing the diversity of family structures and cultural backgrounds, our samples also highlight how parenting styles are influenced by cultural norms and values. Essays encourage readers to consider the broader societal and environmental factors that shape parenting practices, offering a global perspective on child-rearing.

Parenting Styles and Their Adaptation Over Time

Amidst the ever-changing social landscapes, our essays examine how modern challenges such as digital technology, social media, and changing family dynamics have influenced contemporary parenting styles. Discussions on the balance between guidance and autonomy in the digital age provide students with a current view on the evolution of parenting strategies.

Practical Applications and Parenting Advice

Beyond theoretical exploration, our collection includes essays that offer practical advice for parents and caregivers seeking to adopt the most effective parenting style for their family’s needs. By presenting research-based recommendations, these essays serve as a resource for readers looking to apply developmental psychology principles in real-life parenting scenarios.

Fostering Healthy Parent-Child Relationships

Concluding with a focus on the ultimate goal of parenting, these essays emphasize the importance of fostering healthy, supportive, and nurturing relationships between parents and children. Through critical analysis and reflection, students are invited to consider how effective parenting styles contribute to the overall well-being and future success of children.

Roar of The Tiger Mom Analysis

Dysfunctional parent double standards: a critical analysis, made-to-order essay as fast as you need it.

Each essay is customized to cater to your unique preferences

+ experts online

Understanding The Dynamics of Strict Parenting

The impact of parenting style on children, parenting styles and how they may affect a child's development, choosing a proper parenting style, let us write you an essay from scratch.

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Helicopter Parents: It is Leadership not Ownership

Importance of being an involved parent, but not a helicopter parent, different parenting styles: impact on academic achievements, the impact of parenting styles on children, get a personalized essay in under 3 hours.

Expert-written essays crafted with your exact needs in mind

The Effect of Parenting Styles on Social and Emotional Development in Adolescents

Comparison of authoritarian and permissive parenting styles, amy chua's critique on the parenting styles of westerners compared to chinese parents, negative effects of over parenting on children and young adults, growing up in a single parent family, becoming a parent is a hard thing in your life, gender stereotypes in parenting and family, reflective the effects of an authoritative parenting style, parent involvement in education, absent parents in the communities of south africa, corporal punishment should not be used against children, the role that family structure, parenting styles and relational modernity plays in preventing juvenile offences, scott’s speech, how is a multi-family different than a single-family home, children's development with single parent, parenting style and its influence on child development, how different aspects of co-parenting a child with asd influence life satisfaction, the three archetypes on the importance of child discipline, stressors grandparents raising grandchildren face in the u.s, why business valuation is the foundation of a successful family succession planning strategy, relevant topics.

• Family Values
• Marriage and Family

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

Personalize Your Experience

Log in or create an account for a personalized experience based on your selected interests.

Already have an account? Log In

Free standard shipping is valid on orders of $45 or more (after promotions and discounts are applied, regular shipping rates do not qualify as part of the $45 or more) shipped to US addresses only. Not valid on previous purchases or when combined with any other promotional offers.

Register for an enhanced, personalized experience.

Receive free access to exclusive content, a personalized homepage based on your interests, and a weekly newsletter with topics of your choice.

Home / Parenting, Kids & Teens / The 4 types of parenting styles: What style is right for you?

The 4 types of parenting styles: What style is right for you?

Please login to bookmark.

Username or Email Address

Remember Me

A parent’s job is to prepare their children to be adults who are capable of taking care of themselves and overcoming difficulties. It’s not an easy job. Parents have to set appropriate limits, watch their children fail and let them feel the consequences of their actions. Sometimes parents even endure the harsh screams of “I hate you!” or other painful words.

“I tell parents that it’s OK for your kids to be mad at you and not like you because of the limit you set,” said Hannah L. Mulholland, LICSW, MSW, a Mayo Clinic pediatric social worker. “You’re the best person in the world for them not to like and be mad at because you’re the one person who’s not going to desert them. You’re still going to love them, even when they’re mad at you. But for many parents, the reason they don’t set limits is because they want to be liked.”

Parenting is about supporting children while they make their own mistakes, take on age-appropriate responsibilities, think for themselves and solve their own problems. How you do that is up to you.

For example, you can let your kids choose how and when to do their homework — but also let them know that if they don’t do it, there may be consequences at school. “Let your kid be distressed. Let your kid make mistakes,” Mulholland says. “That’s how they learn.”

Kids who don’t learn might enter the adult world woefully unprepared or even afraid because they don’t know how to have relationships, do their laundry or manage their money. “They get in over their heads because they don’t really know what their own capacity is,” Mulholland says.

4 parenting styles

There are four main parenting styles: authoritarian, authoritative, permissive and neglectful. You don’t have to commit to one style. It’s natural to use different styles in different situations. When safety is at stake, a parent might use a firm authoritarian style that leaves no room for negotiation. But a parent might put consequences on hold and lean into a permissive approach to encourage a teenager to call for help if they put themselves in a dangerous situation.

“As parents, we are all doing the best we can each day,” Mulholland says. “Our intentions are always good, but we struggle to execute depending on our own capacity in the moment. Give yourself a break as a parent and recognize your own limits. All of the advice in this article is for when you are your very best self, not necessarily something you can implement all the time.”

Here’s a look at each of the four styles.

Authoritative parenting style

Authoritative parenting is often considered the ideal style for its combination of warmth and flexibility while still making it clear that the parents are in charge. (3) Children of authoritative parents know what is expected of them. Their parents explain reasons for the rules and consequences for breaking them. Parents also listen to their child’s opinions, but the parent remains the ultimate decision maker.

Authoritative parents develop close, nurturing relationships with their children. Children with authoritative parents tend to grow up confident, responsible and capable of managing their emotions. They are also friendly, curious and achievement-oriented.

What is an example of authoritative parenting style?

One place where parenting style shows is at mealtimes. Authoritative parents have more family meals where the parents model eating behaviors — rather than imposing strict restrictions. The parents will include the children in meal preparation. Perhaps the child will choose what’s for dinner one night a week or choose the side dish. Research shows that children of authoritative mothers have a high quality of diet and eat more fruit than children from different parenting styles.

Permissive parenting style

Permissive parents might pride themselves on being their child’s best friend. These parents are warm and nurturing with open communication. They are actively involved in their children’s emotional well-being. They also have low expectations and use discipline sparingly. Permissive parents let children make their own choices, but also bail them out if it doesn’t go well.

Children of permissive parents have the freedom to make decisions like what to eat, when to go to bed and whether to do their homework. These children tend to have good self-esteem and social skills. But they can be impulsive, demanding and lack the ability to self-regulate. (1) Permissive parents often try to control their child’s environment, so the child doesn’t have to experience rejection or failure. This means the child might enter adulthood unprepared.

What is an example of permissive parenting style?

When it comes to food, permissive parents might have lax rules. They allow the children to choose what they want, even if that means the parents make a special meal. This could lead to picky eating and unhealthy diet choices. Permissive parenting is associated with lower fruit and vegetable intake. It may also result in inexperience in trying new things or going with the flow and difficulty in social settings involving food.

Authoritarian parenting style

Authoritarian parenting uses strict rules, high standards and punishment to regulate the child’s behavior. Authoritarian parents have high expectations and are not flexible on them. The children might not even know a rule is in place until they’re punished for breaking it.

Children of authoritarian parents are good at following instructions and behave well. However, these children might grow up with a fear of punishment and lack experience making their own decisions. As a result, some might become aggressively rebellious, lack social skills and may have difficulty making sound decisions on their own.

What is an example of authoritarian parenting style? 

At mealtimes, authoritarian parents might enforce rules, such as the children eat the same meal as everyone else or finish everything on their plate. However, the family is unlikely to discuss why they eat certain foods and how they fit into their culture or affect a child’s health.

Neglectful parenting style

Neglectful parents fulfill the child’s basic needs, but then pay little attention to the child. These parents tend to offer minimal nurturing and have few expectations or limitations for their child. It’s not always a conscious choice parents make, but can be forced by circumstance, such as the need to work late shifts, single parenting, mental health concerns or overall family troubles.

Children of neglectful parents usually grow up to be resilient and self-sufficient out of necessity. They might have trouble controlling emotions, don’t develop effective coping strategies and they have difficulty maintaining social relationships. They tend to have low self-esteem and might seek out inappropriate role models.

What is an example of neglectful parenting style?

Parents who are uninvolved might not buy groceries or plan meals consistently. That could leave the child concerned about when they will next eat. It can lead them to become preoccupied with food. Children who had neglectful parents often overeat when food is available and may become overweight. But these children often have an easier time leaving home when it’s time.

How do I make sure I don’t mess up my child?

There’s no parenting style that is guaranteed to produce perfectly adjusted children. Nobody’s child is going to go through life universally liked and immune to failure or disappointment. Mulholland says everyone experiences difficulties. “It’s just unrealistic to say that a parenting decision is the reason for that.”

Since children will inevitably go through difficult moments, it’s best to equip them with the ability to bounce back. It helps if kids have had some practice from being allowed to try and fail in a safe environment.

For example, if a child played video games instead of studying, they might do poorly on the test. That’s how they learn that they need to manage their time better. But if you let them stay home “sick” to get an extra day to study, they won’t have learned a lesson.

A lot of parents see their child’s successes or failures as a reflection of themselves as a parent. But it’s the parent’s job to give the child the tools they need, not to control the situation.

“I’m always reminding parents that those aren’t your grades,” Mulholland says. “That’s not your college that they end up going to. That’s on them. You shouldn’t measure your worth as a parent on how successful your children are.”

How can parents change their parenting style?

If you find that your child is having some behavior issues, you might decide you need to adjust your parenting style. Behavior change can be as difficult for parents as it is for kids.

Mulholland recommends thinking back to your own childhood and what worked for you and what didn’t. Some people had parents who were very strict. The child wasn’t allowed to talk at the table and was punished severely. As a result, when they became a parent, they went the other way and became permissive. But perhaps a middle ground would work better. As you reflect on your own parenting, think about why you react the way you do.

If you want to change your parenting style, look into parenting workshops. Many schools or early childhood centers offer classes or can refer you to one. Mulholland also recommends the book, How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk . A mental health therapist can also help you work through issues from your own childhood and find a parenting approach that will work for your family.

Which parenting style is most encouraged?

Authoritative parenting is the most recommended parenting style . The combination of clear communication and age-appropriate standards can lead to emotionally stable adults who can handle themselves in social situations and set goals for themselves.

To take an authoritative approach, parents can:

• Set clear boundaries and communicate them to children.
• Offer children choices and have discussions about what’s appropriate. For example, you can choose which pajamas you want to wear to bed. You cannot wear your winter coat to bed because it will be too warm.
• Listen to and explore their children’s emotional health concerns.
• Frequently express love and affection.

A helpful approach can be to use praise and positive reinforcement to encourage desired behavior. Ignore annoying, but not dangerous, attempts at getting attention, such as banging on a wall or whining. You also can tell children, “I’ll wait and respond to you when you stop whining.”

Another approach is to reward children with something they want. For example, instead of taking away their tablet until they do their homework, use it as a reward. “I’m going to give you your tablet as soon as you’re done with your homework.” That way the tablet is a reinforcer instead of a consequence.

How to set limits for children

A big part of parenting is setting rules and limits for your children. A metaphor from Russell A. Barkley, Ph.D. , suggests thinking of parenting like enclosing a pasture for your sheep. You build a fence and put things the sheep need in the pasture — plus some fun things to play with. Then let the sheep roam around within their limits.

“You don’t tell the sheep ‘You need to only be in this corner.’ Or ‘You need to only eat that type of flower,'” Mulholland explains. “They’re likely to run into the good flowers and eat the good stuff. But you’re also going to have the fence around them. So there’s a limit as to how far they can go.”

The same with children. As the parents, you set the limits and provide children with food to eat and toys to play with. As the children show they’re being responsible and can handle more, you can expand their boundaries.

Setting limits together

As much as you can, decide with your child what your limits are ahead of time. For example, before the start of a new school year, decide on your limits for weekday screen time, after-school snacks or homework rules.

If you’re trying to make rules on the fly, you’re more likely to be inconsistent from day to day. If you decide that the kids get 90 minutes of screen time on a school night, then you can always hold to that, and the kids know what to expect.

If you have a spouse or co-parent, discuss limits together. It’s common for two parents to have different ideas of what’s appropriate, so it’s helpful to set the boundaries together. And whether you live in the same house or not, try to maintain the same basic limits.

“The most important thing is — in front of the child — you 100% have your partner’s back, even if you disagree wholeheartedly with how they approached it. In front of the child, you have to have their back,” Mulholland says. “In the moment you say, ‘Yep. Dad said eat your broccoli. ‘” If you would have done things differently, talk to your partner about it away from the kids.

Your relationship with a grown child

Parenting style also plays a role in the relationship between parents and their children when they become adults. Kids who had strict, inflexible parents might not have a close relationship as adults. Kids of permissive parents might come back for help frequently when they are in a bind. Kids who grew up with encouraging, supportive parents tend to have close relationships with their parents. They will be independent, but still go to their parents for advice.

“The best-case scenario is they’re still keeping you involved in their life,” Mulholland says. “They’re telling you about the hardships and maybe even seeking advice, but they’re also not expecting you to fix everything.”

Relevant reading

Lumos Helps with Healing

This inviting chapter book series explores health topics through the friendly lens of therapy dogs. Follow an adorable therapy dog helping a child who broke her arm, with strong messages of empathy, kindness, and courage. Therapy dogs are specially trained to help kids through medical experiences—from lifting spirits, motivating movement,…

Discover more Parenting, Kids & Teens content from articles, podcasts, to videos.

Want more children’s health and parenting information? Sign up for free to our email list.

Children’s health information and parenting tips to your inbox.

Sign-up to get Mayo Clinic’s trusted health content sent to your email. Receive a bonus guide on ways to manage your child’s health just for subscribing.

You May Also Enjoy

by Pat McCaw, M.D.

by Matthew D. Dacy

Privacy Policy

We've made some updates to our Privacy Policy. Please take a moment to review.

Parenting Styles: Types, Examples, And Consequences

When you think of how your parent raised you, much of what you remember might be related to their parenting style. Once you become a parent yourself, you develop your style, and this will be a part of what your children will remember, too. Understanding parenting styles and their results can help you become more self-aware and better prepared to be the kind of parent you want to be.

What is a parenting style?

Each parent develops their way of dealing with their child. There are four recognized styles, but because parents often use different parenting styles at various times, each parent has their unique blend of styles. So, what is a style of parenting?

Parenting style: Definition

A style of parenting is a set of strategies you use to raise your child. Researchers have come up with four basic parenting style categories called the Baumrind parenting styles. Each style has its unique characteristics.

Types of parenting styles

The four Baumrind parenting styles are:

Authoritative

Permissive/Indulgent

Uninvolved/Neglectful

Authoritarian/Disciplinarian

Authoritative parenting style

The  authoritative parenting  style is usually considered the most helpful for children in most instances. It is also known as the most effective and  positive parenting  style. When parents are acting in the authoritative style, they focus on nurturing their children. Authoritative parents support their children and respond readily to their needs.

When parents use an authoritative style, they explain things to their children and take the time to listen to them. Authoritative parents reason with their children, although they may not agree with them on all points. Authoritative parents are their children's leaders and guides, as well as the ones who set important rules. The rules they set aren't excessive, but they're clear and consistent.

Authoritative parents expect much of their children, but they allow them to help set their own goals. Rather than pushing their children beyond what they can reasonably do, authoritative parents communicate with them often to help them achieve.

Imagine that a parent would like a child to get involved in after-school activities. If the parent is acting in an authoritative mode, they talk to the child about what kind of activity they would like to do. After listening to the child's opinion, the parent decides whether it is a good option for their child. They tell their child their decision and explain why they chose that option, and make sure that the child genuinely understands. 

The authoritative parent might ask the child how they can help them get started. Authoritative parents make sure the child has what they need for the activity and talks to them frequently about their progress after they begin.

In this example, a teenager has secretly skipped school. The authoritative parent finds out about it and goes to the teen to talk about what happened and why they made that choice. The parent listens to the teen but also explains why they're disappointed and need to set limits.

Earlier in the teen's life, the parent has already let their child know that they always need to go to school unless they have permission to be absent. So, the teen isn't surprised when the parent explains the consequences of their actions. The parent then makes sure the child faces the consequences.

Consequences of authoritative parenting

Children whose parents have mostly used authoritative parenting tend to be healthy and well-adjusted. These children often have the following characteristics:

Independent

Self-controlled

Interested in finding out about their world

Cooperative

Focused on achievement

Permissive or indulgent parenting style

Someone who parents in the permissive style is typically warm and kind to them. However, they don't set limits for them or have any firm expectations for good behavior. They may not know what their child is doing and may not know whether they are displaying maturity appropriate to their age. The parent and the child seem more like friends.

The school year starts, and the child comes home with a form to fill out to choose after-school activities. The permissive parent might look over the sheet and tell the child how fun an activity would be.

However, if the child says they don't want to do any, the parent says it's okay. If they don't want to do it, they don't have to. The parent doesn't try to find out why or talk to the child about why it's a good idea to get involved. The parent drops the subject. 

This is the situation where the teenager skips school. The parent finds out. They might or might not let the teen know that they've discovered they weren't at school. If the parent does ask them about it, they let the child control the conversation. They might tell them what they did was wrong, but even if they do, they don't stand their ground.

A permissive parent doesn't impose punishments or consequences. They don't take any actions to keep the child from skipping again or even show it if they think it's important. A permissive parent tends to want their child to like them, so they don't push.

Consequences of permissive parenting

When a mostly permissive parent raises a child, they don't learn to set their limits. They might act impulsively and show little self-control. At the same time, they may seek to control others. They're typically aimless and don't usually focus on achievement. They're often rebellious.

Uninvolved or neglectful parenting style

People with an uninvolved style of parenting don't respond to their child's needs. They don't make themselves available when their child needs them. They may even seem to reject their child. An uninvolved style of parenting is similar to being neglectful.

If the school sends home information about activities, the uninvolved parent probably won't even look at the sheet. They don't ask the child if they want to do an activity or pay enough attention to notice the child's need to do it.

If the child decides to do the activity, the parent doesn't make sure they have the supplies they need or transportation to get home. Either the child can't keep up, or someone else steps in to provide these things. If someone does take on those parental responsibilities, the child might bond to them and view them as a role model, whether that's a good idea or not.

If the child of an uninvolved parent skips school, the parent typically won't respond at all. The only exception would be if the child's actions had consequences for the parent.

Consequences of uninvolved parenting 

When children have received mostly  neglectful parenting , they tend to think there's something wrong with them. Their self-esteem is low, and they have little self-confidence.

Disciplinarian or authoritarian parenting style

A parent acting in the authoritarian style is a strict disciplinarian. They rarely explain why they make the rules they make, but they expect the child to follow their rules explicitly. They expect their child to do what they want and to do it perfectly. When the child doesn't manage to satisfy them, they punish them.

When the child brings home their list of activities to choose from, the authoritarian parent tells them which one they must do. They don't listen to find out what the child wants. They also set rules about attendance and participation in the activity. They expect the child to excel in the activity, even though they don't nurture them with understanding or support.

If the teenager of an authoritarian parent skips school, the parent immediately goes straight to punishment. They might lecture them about it. Even if they ask them why they skipped, they probably don't want to know. They don't listen or negotiate, regardless of what the teen's reason might be. They aren't interested.

Consequences of authoritarian parenting

Children raised by authoritarian parents tend to be fearful. They usually have low self-esteem. They may be shy and have poor social skills. If the child wants to show someone they love them, their go-to response is obedience. When they're away from the authoritarian parent, they risk them misbehaving in rebellion or never truly expressing themselves.

Using a combined parenting style

As mentioned earlier here, most parents use a combination of styles. This can be helpful to deal with different situations in ways that are appropriate.

For example, if a child could do an afterschool activity, they'll probably have the best outcome if their parent uses an authoritative parenting style, allowing them to have input before the parent makes the final decision. However, in the second scenario, the parent might do the most good for their child by using an authoritarian approach, but with better communication.

Although it can be healthy to use different parenting styles, you must make sure your child knows what to expect from you as much as possible. They need consistent rules and consequences. They also need to be nurtured and supported. It's even okay to indulge your child on rare occasions.

While being a 'helicopter parent' may be harmful, there is little place for uninvolved parenting styles in healthy parenting. Instead, it's best to allow independence when possible, without abandoning or neglecting your child.

What to do if you're concerned about your parenting style

What type of parenting style do you usually use? If you aren't sure, think about how you communicate with and correct your child. You might feel that you could do a better job if you understood parenting better. You might even be worried about what could happen if you continue along on your present course.

Changing to a healthier parenting style might be very helpful for your child and your relationship with them. Making that change is rarely easy. Talking to a therapist can help you learn parenting skills like communication, negotiation, and self-control. When you talk to a licensed counselor at Regain for online therapy, they can help you identify your unique parenting style and refine it to give the child what they need when they need it. You might have been on the wrong track before, but with help, you can parent your child to be a strong, independent, and caring adult.

Understanding parenting style: Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What are the 4 types of parenting styles.

The four types of parenting styles are:

Authoritarian parenting 

Uninvolved parenting , permissive parenting , authoritative parenting .

Authoritarian parenting, also called disciplinarian style, is a type of parenting that involves setting many rules and demanding perfect adherence to them. The goal is for the parent to be in complete control of their child's behavior (this is a similarity to helicopter parents). With authoritarian parenting, when a child misbehaves, they're punished, and the punishments are often severe. The child is not allowed to question their parents' decisions or make many of their own decision. The parents rule, and the children obey, or they face the consequence that their parents set. Parenting practices of authoritarian parents can often be harsh and feel cold and unloving to the child. 

The uninvolved parenting style, also called neglectful parenting, refers to a parenting style that allows the child to do whatever they want without interference from their parents. They have no one to teach them the best ways to do things, and they often end up being physically hurt because there's no one watching out for them. Their parents don't take care of their needs or teach them what they need to survive when they grow up. The goal of an uninvolved parent is not to be bothered by their children.

The permissive parenting style is similar to uninvolved parenting only because it allows the child to do anything they like. However, in terms of the goal of parenting, the permissive style is different. The permissive parent wants their child to like them, and their parenting reflects that. They set no expectations or limits on their child's behavior at all. In terms of attitude in parenting, permissive parents are happy to do whatever it takes for their child to get what they want at the moment.

Consider all the parenting styles: authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, and uninvolved. Of these, authoritative parents tend to be the most rational. Authoritative parents are the authorities, or experts, on life, but they are not the absolute rulers like authoritarians. Authoritative parents allow their children to have a genuine say, but in the end, they make decisions based on what benefits their child and their family most, both in the short run and in the long-term. Being an authoritative parent means addressing your child's needs and having positive expectations of them. Yet, at the same time, an authoritative parent does set limits. Authoritative parents have rational discussions with their child about the child's goals and needs, listening and explaining so that everyone is on the same page. Read here for more authoritative parenting examples.

Although many experts have described these four parenting styles, another parenting style has been developed in recent years. It's called free-range parenting. Free-range parenting means giving your child freedom to explore their neighborhood, try new things, and have new experiences on their own. The parent's role is to prepare them for these experiences by teaching them the skills they need. Rather than overloading them with tons of structured activities, free-range parents allow their children lots of time for unstructured play. They encourage them to be independent and play outdoors as much as possible. They may have some rules, especially for safety issues, but their main goal is to allow their kids to be kids while developing the skills they need for later life. However, as mentioned above, strong evidence indicates that authoritative parents tend to raise the healthiest, most capable children. 

What is the most effective parenting style?

The link between parenting styles and outcomes for children is undeniable. And each parenting style might be appropriate in specific cases. Yet, of all the parenting styles, authoritative parents seem to get the best results.

In most instances, authoritative parenting is the most effective of all the types of parenting styles. Because their parents listen to them and explain what they need to know about their rules and decisions, the children feel understood and valued. They are more likely to follow the rules and pursue the set goals when they understand them. This is especially true if they had a voice in making those rules or setting those goals. Children learn from their parents how the world works and what they need to do to thrive. They tend to have positive attitudes, rational ways of thinking, and good social skills.

The permissive style of parenting has many drawbacks. The children are in control even though they aren't mature enough to know what's best for them. No one questions their poor decisions or expects them to do anything they aren't eager to do. This sets them up for disappointment and failure later in life. They don't have the skills they need to thrive unless they just happened to want to learn them. When they can't get what they want, the children of permissive parents don't know what to do about it. So, they act out in anger, quit trying, or get into bad habits.

The link between parenting and outcomes couldn't be more evident than with neglectful, uninvolved parenting. The children of uninvolved parents typically have very low self-esteem. After all, their parents showed no signs that they cared anything about them. Because an uninvolved parent's parenting practices are so lacking, the children grow up without any guidance or instruction in life. Thus, they may find it hard to build a life for themselves when they grow up.

As for the authoritarian parenting style, understanding what can happen if you stick to this style alone is critical. The influence of parenting like your child's ruler can show up later when they rebel against society or adopt extreme conformity. They tend to be filled with fear and anxiety and have low self-worth. With the authoritative parents around, the child might be quick to obey, but as soon as they are away from their parents, they tend to do the opposite of what their parents want.

How do I fix bad parenting?

The best way to fix bad parenting is to talk to a therapist about it. Maybe you were the victim of too much of the least helpful parenting styles—authoritarian, neglectful, or indulgent. Or maybe you've used these parenting styles too often, and now your children are behaving in unhealthy ways. Perhaps you would like to be a better parent and do what's most helpful for your children and your family. Maybe you learned about parenting through cultural influences like TV and movies, but now you want to learn more about the best parenting styles from an expert. In any of these cases, a therapist can help you heal the damage from bad parenting and set you on a better path for yourself and your children. Be on the lookout for bad parenting examples such as physical, emotional, and sexual abuse.

So, what can you do to help yourself? First, you can look at your parenting practices and determine what types of parenting styles you've been using. Next, try learning more about authoritative parenting. Put the parenting practices of an authoritative parent to work with your children. You can still use other styles at times if they are more appropriate to the situation. However, remember the relationships between parenting styles and children's behavior. Vary parenting styles as needed but avoid constantly switching from one style to another. Your child needs to know what to expect from you as much as possible.

Your children may need therapy as well, especially if your bad parenting has put them in danger or failed to meet their needs. If you've been a harsh disciplinarian, your child may need some therapy for their anxiety. And if you went through childhood with a bad parent, a therapist can help you understand what happened to you better and guide you as you learn to be a good parent for yourself and your children. If you have survived authoritarian, indulgent, or neglectful parents yourself, it's important to heal from your childhood. 

Can a parent yelling at a child be harmful?

Yes.  As a parent, yelling at your child can have severe consequences. Yelling is verbal abuse, and it can:

Affect the development of a child’s brain

Cause a child to become depressed

Cause medical conditions related to stress

Lead to chronic pain

Increase a child’s bad behavior

Raising children can be frustrating for anyone. That's why even the best parents may want to yell at their kids once in a while. But giving in to that impulse can be harmful to your child, no matter what parenting style you usually use. So, unless the yelling is to warn them of immediate danger, it's best to put a check on those parenting practices and find another way to communicate your message.

Why is authoritative parenting best?

Authoritative parenting has many advantages and benefits. Here are a few benefits that authoritative parents offer:

Children feel loved and valued and learn to value themselves as well

Children tend to behave appropriately

Children have a more positive attitude

Children become good at setting goals and working towards success

Family conflicts tend to be resolved without resorting to verbal or physical abuse

Children have limits as well as opportunities

In the long-term, children of authoritative parents tend to be more successful and happier

What are the 3 basic parenting styles? What is the hardest stage of parenting? What are the hardest parts of parenting? What is unhealthy parenting? What is emotionally abusive parenting?

Parenting styles: Related articles

https://www.regain.us/advice/parenting/what-is-authoritative-parenting-and-how-does-it-affect-children/

https://www.regain.us/advice/parenting/how-to-balance-parenting-marriage/

https://www.regain.us/advice/parenting/the-best-parenting-style-for-you-and-your-kids/

https://www.regain.us/advice/parenting/dealing-with-codependent-parents-how-to-help-them-and-how-to-heal/

https://www.regain.us/advice/parenting/the-top-parenting-fails-and-how-to-avoid-them/

https://www.regain.us/advice/parenting/examples-of-bad-parenting-what-to-do-about-it/

https://www.regain.us/advice/parenting/what-is-positive-parenting-and-how-does-it-work/

Uninvolved Parenting

https://www.regain.us/advice/parenting/the-dangers-of-indulgent-parenting/

https://www.regain.us/advice/parenting/raising-a-child-alone-how-to-win-at-single-parenting/

https://www.regain.us/advice/parenting/parenting-skills-that-every-parent-should-have/

• Does Helicopter Parenting Hurt Your Child’s Future?

Identifying The Types Of Parenting Styles

A parenting style refers to the approach a parent or primary caregiver takes when it comes to raising their child. It typically includes elements like how they discipline their child, what type of emotional bond they have with them, and what expectations they hold for their child’s behavior. While the actions of most parents don’t fit neatly into a single one, or some parents may have their own unique style, learning about other parenting styles can be helpful for analyzing and planning the way you would like to parent your child. Read on for a brief overview of the various parenting styles, their potential outcomes relating to child psychology, and tips for those who want to adjust their parenting style.

Identifying the types of parenting styles

Developmental psychologist Diana Baumrind first introduced three major parenting styles in the 1960s to help explain the different ways in which parents may choose to socialize their children. The Baumrind parenting styles originally included authoritarian, authoritative, and permissive. Another developmental psychologist, Eleanor Maccoby, added the fourth style—neglectful— with the help of John Martin in the 1980s. Multiple elements factor into each parenting style and how it may shape family dynamics and child behavior. In general, the four major parenting styles are categorized based on how responsive and demanding a parent is with their child.

• Responsiveness is determined by how sensitive and open a caregiver is to their child's needs. For example, responsive caregivers show interest in the child's daily activities, display a high level of affectionate interaction, and are willing to respect the child’s point of view. 
• Demandingness is determined by the level of control a parent seeks over their child. For example, demanding caregivers only offer their child a few decisions and feel the need to monitor their activities closely, usually beyond an age-appropriate level.

Extensive research has been done on how each style may affect child development , which will be referenced below along with an overview of all four types.

Authoritarian parenting

Those with an authoritarian parenting style build a high-demand, low-response relationship with their child. It’s usually characterized by one-way communication and a clear definition of parent/child roles. An authoritarian parent often presents their child with strict rules that they are expected to obey without question. They generally offer them little or no room to negotiate and don’t usually feel compelled to explain their rules. The child is expected to uphold these high standards without any mistakes. When mistakes do occur, an authoritarian parent may enforce rules by delivering some form of punishment. 

Children with authoritarian parents are usually well-behaved because they are familiar with stern discipline and the consequences of stepping out of line. These children tend to function well within a structured dynamic with authority figures. However, authoritarian parenting practices often result in children displaying rebellious tendencies as they grow older. In addition, these children may experience trouble managing their anger later in life.

Authoritarian parenting can also vary depending on a family’s culture. One study titled Authoritarian Parenting and Asian Adolescent School Performance, states that Asian-American families were more authoritarian and less authoritative than European-American families and that parenting styles may differ based on immigrant status.  

Authoritative parenting

Authoritative parents tend to build a high-demand, high-response relationship with their child. This approach tends to create a close, nurturing bond between child and caregiver, with clearly defined roles for each and frequent communication back and forth. The child is often presented with clear guidelines for behavior, and expectations come with explanations as well as appropriate disciplinary actions for failing to meet them. Discipline usually focuses on learning through experience and repairing mistakes rather than punishment. The child is frequently given some input into their boundaries and responsibilities.

Authoritative parenting typically supports children in becoming confident, well-adjusted, responsible adults and is generally considered to be the ideal parenting style. Children with an authoritative parent are more likely to have higher self-esteem and to use creativity to accomplish goals because their independence is encouraged. They are also more likely to be able to self-control emotionally after being raised in an environment where speaking about feelings and experiences was normalized. 

Permissive parenting

Parents with a permissive parenting style build a low-demand, high-response relationship with their children. This parenting style often creates a warm, nurturing bond between parent and child but imposes few or no limits or expectations. The adult’s role may be unclear, as the line between parent and friend may not be well defined. Permissive parents tend to be highly responsive to the child’s needs, communicate with them frequently, and offer them free choice, but they offer little structure or guidance. 

While life without limits may sound appealing to a child, children typically need boundaries, discipline, and structure to become well-adjusted adults. Children raised by permissive parents may develop unhealthy eating, sleep, screen time, or homework habits, behavioral issues, or other traits that may negatively impact them over time. Though they are often creative and independent, children with permissive or indulgent parents also tend to be impulsive, selfish, demanding, and have trouble with self-control.

Uninvolved or neglectful parenting

Those with an uninvolved or neglectful parenting style build a low-demand, low-response relationship with their child. Uninvolved parents tend to create a distant, cool bond without clearly defined roles, as the child is given freedom without guidance. Uninvolved parents may meet the child’s basic needs, but often keep themselves detached from their child emotionally. Communication is often limited, and no consistent discipline style is used. A child may experience uncertainty and disinterest as a result of uninvolved parenting. 

Children who grow up with uninvolved or neglectful parents may become more self-sufficient and resilient. However, they may also have trouble controlling their emotions, have low self-esteem, experience increased academic challenges, and have difficulty establishing or maintaining healthy social relationships.

What is the ideal parenting style?

Generally, authoritative parenting is considered to be the optimum parenting style because it offers clear parental guidance and expectations, nurturing emotional support, and age-appropriate responsibility. Children can benefit when parents encourage healthy boundaries and teach them how to learn from mistakes. Clearly defined parent/child roles and taking the child’s feelings and perspective into account can also help build a strong bond and foster open communication. 

“An authoritative parenting style has consistently been associated with positive developmental outcomes in youth , such as psychosocial competence (e.g., maturation, resilience, optimism, self-reliance, social competence, self-esteem) and academic achievement,” say the authors of a 2019 research paper about parenting styles.

Remember, the approach of many parents won’t fit neatly into one style, but thinking of them in this way can give caregivers a framework to assist them in making decisions about how to relate to their children. It’s also worth noting that every situation and family dynamic is different, and that culture can also significantly influence how people choose to raise their children. The best parenting style for you may not be the best for others, so it's important to explore varying techniques and methods until you find a style that works. 

How to cultivate a healthy parenting style

If you've noticed patterns you don't like in your parenting style or relationship with your child, there are ways to shift your habits over time. Some tips for building toward a healthier parenting style may include a focus on the following goals:

• Set and consistently enforce well-defined rules
• Center discipline on learning and growth
• Communicate how children are expected to behave 
• Establish open lines of communication
• Delineate clear parent and child roles
• Maintain parental authority
• Offer age-appropriate independence

Another way to grow as a parent is to seek out the support of a therapist. Family therapy can be valuable for allowing families to say their feelings and improve communication to build a healthier group dynamic. Or, individual therapy can help you as a parent identify the underlying causes behind your choices and assist you in strengthening your communication and parenting skills. A therapist can also support you in coping with the stressors of raising a child and offer you a safe space to express and process emotions.

How to find a therapist

If you’re interested in meeting with a therapist, you have options: in-person, or virtual. Those who are interested in traditional, in-person sessions can search for a provider in their local area. For those who have busy schedules and would find virtual meetings to be more available and convenient, virtual therapy may be worth considering. With a  virtual therapy service like BetterHelp, you can get matched with a licensed therapist who you can meet with via phone, video call, and/or in-app messaging to get support for the challenges you may be facing. Research suggests that both online and in-person therapy can offer similar benefits in general, so you can typically choose the format that’s right for you.

What are the advantages of parenting styles?

Different parenting styles have a significant impact on a child's development, behavior, and overall well-being. Different parenting styles offer distinct advantages that can contribute to positive outcomes for children. Here are the advantages of some common parenting styles :

Authoritative Parenting:

• Positive Behavior: Children raised with authoritative parenting tend to exhibit positive behaviors, self-discipline, and responsibility.
• Emotional Well-Being: They often have good emotional control skills, self-esteem, and social competence due to the warmth and support provided by authoritative parents. They may be able to develop healthy relationships more easily than other parenting styles.
• Academic Success: Authoritative parents emphasize learning and education, leading to better academic performance.

Permissive Parenting:

• Open Communication: Permissive parents often have open lines of communication with their children, which can encourage trust and discussing of thoughts and feelings.
• Creativity and Independence: Children may develop creativity, independence, and decision-making skills as permissive parenting allows for more freedom.

Authoritarian Parenting:

• Structure and Discipline: Children raised in an authoritarian style environment often learn discipline, order, and respect for rules.
• Goal Achievement: Authoritarian parenting can lead to high achievement and adherence to responsibilities due to the strong emphasis on performance.

Uninvolved/Neglectful Parenting:

• Independence: Children growing up in an uninvolved environment might develop self-reliance and independence out of necessity.
• Adaptability: In some cases, children learn to adapt to challenges as they make their own decisions at a young age.

These advantages can be realized when parenting styles are applied in a balanced and adaptable manner. Parenting is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor, and the most effective approach may involve elements from different styles, adjusted based on a child's individual needs, family dynamics, and cultural context.

What are the pros and cons of uninvolved parenting style?

The uninvolved or neglectful parenting style is characterized by a lack of emotional involvement, responsiveness, and guidance from parents. This style can have both potential advantages and significant disadvantages for children's development and well-being. Here are the pros and cons of uninvolved parenting:

Pros of Uninvolved Parenting:

• Independence: Children raised in an uninvolved parenting environment may develop a sense of independence and self-reliance at an early age, as they learn to navigate life with limited guidance.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Due to the lack of parental intervention, children might develop problem-solving and decision-making skills to handle challenges on their own.
• Flexibility: Children might adapt well to changing circumstances and be able to make decisions without relying heavily on external guidance.

Cons of Uninvolved Parenting :

• Emotional Neglect: One of the most significant drawbacks of uninvolved parenting is emotional neglect. Children may experience feelings of loneliness, insecurity, and a lack of emotional support.
• Poor Attachment: Lack of emotional bonding and responsiveness can lead to insecure attachment styles, which may impact the child's ability to form healthy relationships in the future.
• Behavioral Issues: With no clear boundaries for behavior, children may exhibit behavioral problems such as aggression, defiance, and lack of impulse control due to the absence of consistent guidance and discipline.
• Academic Struggles: Kids may struggle academically due to a lack of support and encouragement for learning and education.
• Emotional Control Difficulties:  Emotional neglect can hinder the development of emotional control skills, leading to difficulties managing and expressing emotions appropriately.
• Low Self-Esteem: Children may develop low self-esteem and feelings of unworthiness, as they may interpret the lack of parental involvement as a reflection of their value.
• Risk of Delinquency: Children with uninvolved parents might be more vulnerable to engaging in risky behaviors and delinquency to seek attention or fill emotional voids.
• Mental Health Concerns: Emotional neglect can contribute to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and a sense of emptiness.
• Attachment Disorders: Extreme cases of uninvolved parenting can lead to attachment disorders, which can have lasting negative effects on a child's ability to form healthy relationships.

What are the 4 parenting styles?

Four well recognized parenting styles include , permissive parenting, authoritative parenting, uninvolved parenting, and uninvolved parenting. The pros and cons of parenting styles depend on each individual’s situation and implementation. 

Which parenting style is better and why?

The authoritative parenting style is often considered one of the most effective and beneficial approaches for raising well-adjusted and emotionally healthy children. While there is no one-size-fits-all "best" parenting style, authoritative parenting has several qualities that contribute to its positive reputation :

• Balanced Approach: Authoritative parents attempt to strike a perfect balance between setting clear expectations and rules while also being responsive and nurturing. This balance helps children understand boundaries and consequences while feeling loved and supported.
• Positive Discipline: Authoritative parents use discipline methods that teach and guide rather than punish. This approach promotes understanding of consequences and encourages children to learn from their mistakes.
• Effective Communication: This style values open communication between parents and children. Children feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings, which fosters trust and a strong parent-child bond.
• Encourages Independence: Authoritative parents encourage children to develop autonomy and make age-appropriate decisions. This promotes self-esteem, responsibility, and the development of critical thinking skills.
• Emotional Intelligence: By acknowledging and validating children's emotions, authoritative parents help their children develop emotional intelligence and healthy emotional control.
• Problem-Solving Skills: This style involves working together with children to solve problems and make decisions. Children learn to analyze situations, consider options, and make informed choices.
• Adaptability: Authoritative parents are often flexible and willing to adapt their parenting strategies to their child's individual needs and developmental stage.
• Positive Self-Esteem: The combination of clear expectations and warmth helps children develop a positive self-concept and a sense of self-worth.
• Academic Success: The emphasis on learning and education often leads to positive academic outcomes as children develop a strong work ethic and intrinsic motivation to succeed.
• Healthy Relationships: Children raised with authoritative parenting tend to have healthier relationships with peers and adults due to their well-developed communication and social skills.

The "best" parenting style is the one that aligns with your family's values, your child's temperament, and your unique circumstances. What's most important is creating a nurturing and supportive environment that promotes your child's well-being, emotional growth, and overall development.

What is the most positive parenting style?

The most positive parenting style is subjective and can vary based on individual family dynamics, cultural influences, and the unique needs of children. However, many experts and researchers consider the authoritative parenting style to be one of the most positive and effective approaches. This style combines warmth, responsiveness, and clear expectations to create a supportive and nurturing environment for children's growth and development.

What is the most healthy parenting style?

The most healthy parenting style is one that promotes the overall well-being, emotional development, and positive outcomes of children while fostering a strong and loving parent-child relationship. While different families and experts may have varying opinions on what constitutes the "most healthy" parenting style, many consider the authoritative parenting style to be particularly beneficial for children's long-term health and development. Authoritative parenting combines warmth, responsiveness, and clear boundaries to create a nurturing and supportive environment. 

What parenting style has little to no consequences?

Both permissive and uninvolved parenting have little to no consequences. Permissive parents typically do not set boundaries or consistent consequences for a child’s misbehavior. Children of permissive parents may struggle to transition to traditional schooling as a result of unclear boundaries and expectations. 

Children with permissive parents may also develop unhealthy habits around diet, screentime, and sleep patterns. This may be due to parents allowing their child to choose what snacks to eat, how much time to spend watching TV, and not having a consistent bed time. 

How do parenting styles affect a child's mental health?

Parenting styles play a crucial role in shaping a child's mental health . The authoritative parenting style, characterized by a balance of warmth, clear boundaries, and positive discipline, tends to foster positive mental health outcomes. Children raised by authoritative parents often develop higher self-esteem, emotional control skills, and a reduced risk of anxiety and depression. The consistent yet empathetic approach of authoritative parenting contributes to a sense of safeness, open communication, and the ability to cope with challenges in a healthy manner.

Conversely, parenting styles like authoritarian parenting, marked by strict rules and punitive discipline, can lead to heightened anxiety and lower self-esteem in children due to the lack of emotional support. Permissive parenting may result in impulsivity and difficulties with self-discipline, potentially affecting the child's ability to manage emotions effectively. Uninvolved parenting, characterized by emotional neglect, can lead to feelings of abandonment and detachment, contributing to issues such as low self-worth and challenges forming healthy relationships. In essence, an emotionally responsive and balanced parenting approach that considers the child's psychological well-being and offers appropriate guidance is vital for fostering positive mental health outcomes.

What parenting style causes anxiety?

The authoritarian parenting style has been shown to increase anxiety in children. Parents who use authoritarian behavior to manage a child’s behavior typically use a mechanism of fear to maintain discipline, enacting harsh punishments for misbehavior. The authoritarian parent dictates rules and expectations to the child with the expectation that the child follows them without reasoning. 

Children of authoritarian parents may become anxious due to expectations placed on them by their parents. They also may worry about any disciplinary measures that may happen if they do not meet their parents' expectations. 

How negative parenting styles can affect your child?

Negative parenting styles can have a significant impact on a child's overall well-being and development. Here are some ways in which different negative parenting styles can affect children:

Low Self-Esteem: Children raised with strict rules and little room for autonomy may develop low self-esteem and feelings of inadequacy due to the constant focus on performance and obedience.

Fear of Failure: The fear of punishment can lead to a fear of failure, preventing children from taking healthy risks and exploring new experiences.

Rebellion or Resentment: Some children may rebel against the strict rules, leading to conflicts and strained parent-child relationships.

Impulsivity and Lack of Self-Discipline: Children raised with minimal boundaries and consequences may struggle with self-discipline, making impulsive decisions without considering the consequences.

Difficulty with Authority: The lack of structure can make it challenging for children to respect authority figures and adhere to rules in other contexts.

Insecurity: Children might feel insecure due to the absence of clear expectations and guidance, leading to a lack of direction and purpose.

Uninvolved Parenting:

Emotional Neglect: Children raised with neglectful parenting might experience emotional neglect, which can lead to feelings of loneliness, insecurity, and a lack of emotional control skills.

Attachment Issues: The absence of emotional support and guidance can result in attachment issues and difficulties in forming healthy relationships.

Academic and Behavioral Challenges: Lack of parental involvement can contribute to academic struggles and behavioral issues for elementary through college students, as children lack consistent guidance and encouragement.

• Exploring The Nature Vs. Nurture Child Development Debate Medically reviewed by Corey Pitts , MA, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
• The Impacts Of Parental Emotional Neglect Medically reviewed by April Justice , LICSW
• Relationships and Relations

Warning: The NCBI web site requires JavaScript to function. more...

An official website of the United States government

The .gov means it's official. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you're on a federal government site.

The site is secure. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

• Publications
• Account settings
• Browse Titles

NCBI Bookshelf. A service of the National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-.

StatPearls [Internet].

Types of parenting styles and effects on children.

Terrence Sanvictores ; Magda D. Mendez .

Affiliations

Last Update: September 18, 2022 .

• Definition/Introduction

There is a great deal of diversity among families when it comes to parenting. Cultural backgrounds greatly impact how the family unit exists and how children are reared. In the last several years, the population of the United States of America has had a change in makeup. Changes driven by immigration (with different cultural, ethnic, and spiritual ideologies), socioeconomic status, and single-parent families are some factors that determine various parenting styles among families. As per the 2014 U.S. Census Bureau data, one-quarter of children lived in single-parent families, and three-quarters lived in households with 2 married parents. These patterns differ when race and ethnicity are considered. Although children can thrive in all types of family environments, data suggest that, on average, children living in single-parent families fare less than their counterparts.

The definition of culture refers to a pattern of social norms, values, language, and behavior shared by individuals. As a result, parents are affected by their culture. In terms of  self-regulation, parenting approaches vary across cultures concerning promoting attention, compliance, delayed gratification, executive function, and effortful control.

Every parent has a different approach to interacting and guiding their children. A child's morals, principles, and conduct are generally established through this bond. Researchers have grouped parenting styles into 3, 4, 5, or more psychological constructs. This topic's content will only focus on 4 parenting categories: authoritarian, authoritative, permissive, and uninvolved. Every category employs a unique approach to how parents raise their children. Generally, each parent will fall into 1 of these categories and sometimes have some characteristics from another category. Parenting style can also be situation-dependent.

• Issues of Concern

Authoritarian Parenting

Parents of this style tend to have a 1-way mode of communication where the parent establishes strict rules that the child obeys. There is little to no room for negotiations from the child, and the rules are not usually explained. They expect their children to uphold these standards while making no errors. Mistakes generally lead to punishment. Authoritarian parents are normally less nurturing and have high expectations with limited flexibility. 

Children who grow up with authoritarian parents will usually be the most well-behaved in the room because of the consequences of misbehaving. Additionally, they can better adhere to the precise instructions required to reach a goal. Furthermore, this parenting style can result in children who have higher levels of aggression but may also be shy, socially inept, and unable to make their own decisions. [1]  This aggression can remain uncontrolled as they have difficulty managing anger as they were not provided with proper guidance. They have poor self-esteem, which further reinforces their inability to make decisions. [2]  Strict parental rules and punishments often influence the child to rebel against authority figures as they grow older.  

Authoritative Parenting

This parent typically develops a close, nurturing relationship with their children. They have clear guidelines for their expectations and explain their reasons associated with disciplinary actions. Disciplinary methods are used as a way of support instead of punishment. Not only can children have input into goals and expectations, but there are also frequent and appropriate levels of communication between the parent and their child. Generally, this parenting style leads to the healthiest outcomes for children but requires a lot of patience and effort from both parties. 

Authoritative parenting results in children who are confident, responsible, and able to self-regulate. [1] [3]  They can manage their negative emotions more effectively, which leads to better social outcomes and emotional health. Since these parents also encourage independence, their children will learn that they can accomplish goals independently. This results in children who grow up with higher self-esteem. Also, these children have high academic achievement and school performance. [4]

Permissive Parenting

Permissive parents tend to be warm and nurturing and usually have minimal expectations. They impose limited rules on their children. Communication remains open, but parents allow their children to figure things out for themselves. These low levels of expectation usually result in rare uses of discipline. They act more like friends than parents. 

Limited rules can lead children to unhealthy eating habits, especially regarding snacks. [5]  This can result in increased risks for obesity and other health problems later in the child's life. The child also has a lot of freedom as they decide their bedtime, if or when to do homework, and screen time with the computer and television. [6]  Freedom to this degree can lead to other negative habits as the parent does not provide much guidance on moderation. Overall, children of permissive parents usually have some self-esteem and decent social skills. However, they can be impulsive, demanding, selfish, and lack self-regulation. [7] [8]

Uninvolved Parenting

Children are given a lot of freedom as this type of parent typically stays out of the way. They fulfill the child's basic needs while remaining detached from their child's life. An uninvolved parent does not utilize a particular disciplining style and has limited communication with their child. They tend to offer little nurturing while having little or no expectations of their children. 

The children of uninvolved parents are usually resilient and may even be more self-sufficient than children with other types of upbringing. However, these skills are developed out of necessity. Additionally, they might have trouble controlling their emotions, less effective coping strategies, academic challenges, and difficulty maintaining or nurturing social relationships. [9] [10]

• Clinical Significance

Characteristics of a parent's upbringing style may continue to be prevalent in the child's behaviors and actions as they age. As children grow older, they can be affected by other factors that further shape or change their conduct (ie, therapy, culture, job, and social circle). Regarding health outcomes, it is important to identify which areas of concern are related to the upbringing style of a patient's parents (ie, the habit of unmonitored snacking) and address the issues at that level. These issues become relatively more important regarding behavioral and psychological intervention.

Becoming culturally competent whenever possible is a great asset for providers who take care of pediatric patients. Understanding the family background, how rules are set, and discipline styles will allow the clinician to understand the dynamics of the family unit. Once the provider is familiar with the parental rearing techniques, identifying, managing, or referring families will be easier.

• Nursing, Allied Health, and Interprofessional Team Interventions

Child interventions may require knowledge of their parent's upbringing style, especially if physical or verbal abuse is suspected. Understanding the child's home environment can lead to better patient outcomes as more personalized approaches can be taken toward the child's well-being.

• Review Questions
• Access free multiple choice questions on this topic.
• Comment on this article.

Disclosure: Terrence Sanvictores declares no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies.

Disclosure: Magda Mendez declares no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies.

This book is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0) ( http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ ), which permits others to distribute the work, provided that the article is not altered or used commercially. You are not required to obtain permission to distribute this article, provided that you credit the author and journal.

• Cite this Page Sanvictores T, Mendez MD. Types of Parenting Styles and Effects On Children. [Updated 2022 Sep 18]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-.

In this Page

Bulk download.

• Bulk download StatPearls data from FTP

Related information

• PMC PubMed Central citations
• PubMed Links to PubMed

Similar articles in PubMed

• Family pediatrics: report of the Task Force on the Family. [Pediatrics. 2003] Family pediatrics: report of the Task Force on the Family. Schor EL, American Academy of Pediatrics Task Force on the Family. Pediatrics. 2003 Jun; 111(6 Pt 2):1541-71.
• Farm population of the United States: 1986. [Curr Popul Rep Popul Charact. ...] Farm population of the United States: 1986. Deare D, Kalbacher JZ. Curr Popul Rep Popul Charact. 1987 Nov; (60):1-34.
• Relationship between Family Racial/Ethnic Backgrounds, Parenting Practices and Styles, and Adolescent Eating Behaviors. [Int J Environ Res Public Healt...] Relationship between Family Racial/Ethnic Backgrounds, Parenting Practices and Styles, and Adolescent Eating Behaviors. Monroe-Lord L, Anderson A, Jones BL, Richards R, Reicks M, Gunther C, Banna J, Topham GL, Lora KR, Wong SS, et al. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Jun 16; 19(12). Epub 2022 Jun 16.
• Review Could scale-up of parenting programmes improve child disruptive behaviour and reduce social inequalities? Using individual participant data meta-analysis to establish for whom programmes are effective and cost-effective [ 2017] Review Could scale-up of parenting programmes improve child disruptive behaviour and reduce social inequalities? Using individual participant data meta-analysis to establish for whom programmes are effective and cost-effective Gardner F, Leijten P, Mann J, Landau S, Harris V, Beecham J, Bonin EM, Hutchings J, Scott S. 2017 Dec
• Review Fragile families and child wellbeing. [Future Child. 2010] Review Fragile families and child wellbeing. Waldfogel J, Craigie TA, Brooks-Gunn J. Future Child. 2010 Fall; 20(2):87-112.

Recent Activity

• Types of Parenting Styles and Effects On Children - StatPearls Types of Parenting Styles and Effects On Children - StatPearls

Your browsing activity is empty.

Activity recording is turned off.

Turn recording back on

Connect with NLM

National Library of Medicine 8600 Rockville Pike Bethesda, MD 20894

Web Policies FOIA HHS Vulnerability Disclosure

Help Accessibility Careers

Parenting Styles

Reviewed by Psychology Today Staff

It is a stereotype that, in therapy, all of a person’s problems will be blamed on their parents. That is not the case. But decades of psychological research have suggested that the approach to parenting generally followed by an individual’s mother and/or father can influence the way they approach relationships, challenges, and opportunities. That doesn’t mean that an adult can’t change, of course, especially once they understand what may be influencing their behavior. And parents who become aware of the pitfalls of their own style and how it may affect their kids can also change.

For more on dysfunctional parenting, click here .

On This Page

• What are the four major parenting styles?
• How can a parent’s style predict a child’s future relationships?
• How can mothers and fathers tell what their parenting style is?
• How can parents become more authoritative?
• What is supportive parenting?
• What is attachment parenting?
• How can mothers and fathers transition away from attachment parenting?

Research begun by developmental psychologist Diana Baumrind in the 1960s identified three main parenting styles —authoritarian, indulgent, and authoritative. Later studies added a fourth—neglectful. Every parent does not neatly fit into one of these four categories but they describe the approaches of many.

• An authoritarian parent seeks to maintain a high level of control over their children. They may set and adhere to a strict set of rules, and are more likely to support and take part in corporal punishment such as spanking. Children of highly authoritarian parents may struggle socially and may be likely to become authoritarian parents themselves.
• Neglectful parents (also known as uninvolved or disengaged) take on a limited parenting role. They may not spend as much time as other parents in conversation, play, or other activities, and may not bother to set many house rules. Some children of neglectful parents may resist rules outside of the home and struggle with self-control.
• Indulgent (or permissive) parents may be attentive and warm, but may not set many rules for their children. They may prioritize being their child’s friend over being their parent. Research suggests that the children of permissive parents may show higher levels of creativity but may also feel entitled, and be more interested in taking rather than giving in their own relationships.
• Authoritative parents follow what is widely understood as the preferred approach. Such parents are more pragmatic and flexible. They set clear boundaries but also encourage children’s independence within those limits. Discipline in such families may be more supportive than punitive, and as children get older, their independence increases. Children of authoritative parents may have more highly developed self-control and self-reliance.

Recent research suggests that, in some families, a parent’s style, especially as it relates to maintaining control over their children, could leave their kids vulnerable to emotional abuse from future partners, employers, and and others. Researchers found that people raised with a parent who maintained strict psychological control over them grew to be especially vulnerable to emotionally abusive partners. The effect appeared to be offset, though, by experiencing emotional warmth from the other parent. Research continues to explore the effect of differing parenting styles in the same family, and whether it matters if a mother or father is the authoritarian.

Much research of parenting styles has examined how the styles affect children as they grow up, and how negative effects could be tempered. But other studies have focused on helping parents become more self-aware and change their styles to develop healthier relationships with their kids . Some researchers have developed analytical scales in which parents indicate how they would respond to certain scenarios with an eye toward helping them shift, perhaps through therapy, to a more moderate approach.

In practical terms, most parents do not think of themselves as authoritarian, authoritative, or otherwise, and many mothers and fathers are self-aware enough to know that they may not be consistent with their kids at all times. Experts suggest that attention to some general guidelines can help parents develop a healthier style—for example, being consciously warm and loving toward children, setting age-appropriate limits, actively listening to children’s concerns, gently but firmly asking to be treated with respect, and “catching” kids being good , while making sure they know they’ve been seen and acknowledged.

Supportive parenting describes an approach to authoritative parenting in which mothers and fathers are conscious of how often they say no to children (as they often must, especially when kids are young) so that they can seek more opportunities to say yes to them in encouraging ways that help kids develop confidence and self-esteem. When children are mostly told what they cannot do, they can feel rejected by a parent, even a well-meaning one, with potentially negative emotional outcomes. Being consciously supportive and selfless with children can help them internalize belief in themselves.

Attachment parenting , a term coined by pediatrician William Sears, describes an approach to parenting in which mothers and fathers are physically and emotionally close to their children, especially at an early age, and is characterized in practice by extended periods of breastfeeding and co-sleeping. Sears referred to it as “what mothers and fathers would do instinctively if they were raising their baby on a desert island.” There is little evidence, however, that this approach leads to more positive psychological outcomes for children and many experts reject attachment parenting as unnecessarily demanding of parents and potentially creating conflict and division between new parents.

Parents who commit themselves to attachment parenting and have the time and temperament to maintain the approach throughout early childhood may then be faced with the challenge of weaning their children from the approach. These mothers and fathers may need to consciously practice “ detachment parenting ” so that children entering early adolescence can develop independence and healthy friendships, while resisting feeling rejected themselves as kids begin to resist a parent’s efforts to hold onto their previous level of connection.

U.S. Surgeon General issues health advisory about the stress of parents' invisible labor. Cultural examples like Katy Perry's song and 'The New Yorker' cover spotlight the crisis.

Raising a child with autism can strain marriages due to stress and financial pressures. Discover how these challenges impact relationships and explore coping strategies.

Severe, prolonged stress is impacting the mental health of parents.

Overparenting, also known as being a helicopter parent, is detrimental for children and can create helplessness later in life.

For kids, having "poly parents" isn't nearly as confusing as how it may seem.

Body image expert, Dr. Charlotte Markey, answers five questions related to what role—if any—social media plays in eating disorders.

If you are a recent empty nester struggling to find your new identity or a new mom wanting to create balance in your life, these suggestions can help.

Being a parent is difficult, but the role is fairly clear. Being a grandparent is anything but clear. It is both wonderful and stressful. Asking the right questions can help.

When the parent of your child dies suddenly, you are faced with one of the hardest tasks of parenting. Here are key steps to help you all come through it with a deeper connection.

Explore Carrie Buck's tragic story and the dark legacy of forced sterilization laws that once targeted thousands in America, still echoing in today's legal landscape.

• Find a Therapist
• Find a Treatment Center
• Find a Psychiatrist
• Find a Support Group
• Find Online Therapy
• United States
• Brooklyn, NY
• Chicago, IL
• Houston, TX
• Los Angeles, CA
• New York, NY
• Portland, OR
• San Diego, CA
• San Francisco, CA
• Seattle, WA
• Washington, DC
• Asperger's
• Bipolar Disorder
• Chronic Pain
• Eating Disorders
• Passive Aggression
• Personality
• Goal Setting
• Positive Psychology
• Stopping Smoking
• Low Sexual Desire
• Relationships
• Child Development
• Self Tests NEW
• Therapy Center
• Diagnosis Dictionary
• Types of Therapy

It’s increasingly common for someone to be diagnosed with a condition such as ADHD or autism as an adult. A diagnosis often brings relief, but it can also come with as many questions as answers.

• Emotional Intelligence
• Gaslighting
• Affective Forecasting
• Neuroscience

Parenting Style and the Development Essay

• To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
• As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
• As a template for you assignment

Parenting styles of children

Stressors for families and communities, causes of the neglect, effects of the neglect, pablo case study, works cited.

Undoubtedly, parents raise their children differently, but what is important to understand is how those differences affect outcomes for children. There are three parenting styles according to a classical classification: authoritative, authoritarian, and permissive (Hamon and Schrodt 151). To compare them, it is necessary to review the effective and ineffective techniques in each style.

First of all, the effectiveness of the authoritative style has been repeatedly confirmed in the relevant literature; in fact, it is now considered to be the most effective of the three styles (Williams et al. 1055). The reason is that the style combines high warmth toward children with high control. The authoritarian style features high levels of limit-setting and intrusiveness of children’s independence, which can be effective in terms of protecting children from bad influences. An effective technique of the permissive style is developing stronger family bonds, which increases children’s responsiveness.

However, there are also ineffective techniques. Authoritative parents may try to ineffectively demonstrate “responsiveness and demandingness” (Lin and Billingham 254) in the same situation, which may cause children’s resistance. Authoritarian parents’ ineffective technique is to discipline their children to the extent of minimal autonomy, which negatively affects children’s development. Finally, an ineffective technique in permissive parenting is an indulgence. Failing to practice appropriate control, such parents may overlook or fail to prevent negative outcomes for children.

The three parenting styles have both effective and ineffective techniques. The authoritative style is generally considered the most effective, and the authoritarian one is generally considered the least effective; the permissive style is in between. However, it is acknowledged that certain effectiveness in terms of achieving positive outcomes for children can be found in each style.

Major stressors for families and communities that may cause abuse and neglect include unemployment, “over employment” (in this context: spending too much time at work as opposed to spending it with one’s family), financial problems, substance abuse, and the lack of community support. Unemployment can affect families from various cultures and lifestyles by increasing internal tension, provoking frequent conflicts, and raising child neglect (“Unemployment Triggers Increase in Child Neglect”). Similarly, spending too much time at work makes parents pay less attention to their partners and children, which can cause neglect, and conflicts based on one’s being too busy with work can lead to abuse.

Similarly, if a family experiences financial problems, its members may feel resentment and display aggression. Also, Bulman states that children may blame their parents for financial stress, and such negative events contributing to abuse and neglect can occur in families with different cultural backgrounds. Substance abuse is an especially strong stressor because families that face this problem have to go through a remarkably difficult experience of overcoming addiction. Finally, if a family is not properly supported by its community, it is fertile soil for abuse and neglect (“If You Suspect Child Abuse”). Having to cope with family problems in a closed, unresponsive environment can lead to aggression and violence.

According to the Child Welfare Information Gateway, neglect can be caused by a lack of social skills, inadequately developed emotional relationships, poor time management, and poverty. Parents’ failure to provide for their children’s basic needs may be displayed in children’s changed behavior and worsening performance. Children in low-income families and vulnerable populations are at most risk of being neglected, and financially challenged parents are at most risk to neglect.

Physical abuse can be caused by a high level of unresolved stress and anger and by the lack of positive models. The signs of such abuse may include wounds, injuries, and depressive moods. Children in families living “under pressure” (“Physical Abuse”), including poverty and social vulnerability, are at most risk of being abused, and parents in such families are at most risk of abusing, too.

Sexual abuse can be caused by sadism, psychological problems, inadequate ethical standards, and abusive power and control. The signs in victims include difficulties walking and sitting, venereal diseases, and avoidance behaviors (Child Welfare Information Gateway). Children who are at most risk of sexual abuse are those who are poorly supervised, have disabilities, lack knowledge on sexuality, and are exposed to potential abusers; the latter are usually found to be mentally ill or ethically challenged.

Psychological maltreatment can be caused by unresolved psychological issues. The signs of it primarily include “extremes in behavior, such as overly compliant or demanding behavior, extreme passivity, or aggression” (Child Welfare Information Gateway), and depressive symptoms. Parents with psychological issues and traumas for which they do not seek treatment are at most risk of emotionally maltreating their children, and children in such families are at most risk of being maltreated.

Neglect during pregnancy can cause a child’s poor health, developmental problems, and premature birth. During the age of birth to one year, neglect can undermine healthy development, especially in terms of the child’s feeling of safety. Neglected infants and toddlers can demonstrate delays in motor development and coordination (Child Welfare Pre-Service Training). Neglected four- to eight-year-olds may fail to develop necessary social skills, and neglected eight- to twelve-year-olds may experience conflicts and inability to build adequate relationships with other people. In adolescents, neglect may cause psychological problems, depressive moods, and suicidal thoughts.

Physical abuse during pregnancy can lead to injuries and traumas causing serious medical conditions, inborn diseases, or miscarriage. Abuse during the age of birth to eight years can undermine a child’s growth and physical development; also, psychological development can be compromised, as the child may fail to develop the feeling of security. In later ages, physical abuse (if a child has not experienced it before) may cause acute responses, such as major depressive symptoms or aggression and violent behaviors.

Similar to physical abuse, sexual abuse can lead to dramatic outcomes for an unborn child. In toddlers and infants, such abuse can cause injuries and subsequent diseases. In four- to twelve-year-olds, sexual abuse leads to psychological trauma that later results in anxiety, depression, and inability to build healthy relationships. In adolescence, sexual abuse may cause acute responses similar to the responses to physical abuse.

A psychologically maltreated mother may fail to manage her pregnancy correctly, and the negative outcomes include premature birth, malnutrition, or miscarriage. Among toddlers and infants, such maltreatment may lead to developmental delays manifested in poor social and intimacy-related skills. Emotionally maltreated four- to twelve-year-olds may experience insecurity or display violence. In adolescence, maltreatment of this kind results in aggression, withdrawal, and indifference.

A six-year-old boy named Pablo came to school one morning with disturbing injuries: he had a black eye, a cut lip, and several scratches on his forehead and his neck (“Making a Call”). If I were Pablo’s teacher, I would be deeply concerned about his injuries, and I would have to develop a plan on what to do to ensure that the boy receives all the necessary help and support. My plan should be based on the reporting guidelines provided by the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) and my ethical standards of an educator. This plan will primarily include reporting and supporting positive outcomes.

First of all, I need to report the incident. For this, I need to talk to Pablo first and to ask him to share, in an open and comforting environment, everything he feels he should share about what happened. It can be challenging for a child to tell about being abused, which is why I should be very delicate during the conversation. Further, I need to call the hotline and tell everything I know about the incident and Pablo’s family situation to the DFPS (“Making a Call”). Also, I need to convince all the other professionals who saw the boy’s injuries (including other educators and nurses) to report as well.

Second, I need to maintain confidentiality and support positive outcomes for Pablo and his family. For this, I will refuse to reveal the fact that I was the reporter even if I am confronted by the school administrators or Pablo’s parents. Second, I need to call the hotline again with the call reference I was given to check on the progress of the investigation and measures taken by Child Protective Services. Finally, I need to approach Pablo again during the same day to see how he is doing and to ensure that he does not have to stay at home alone with his presumably abusive father.

I know I would be horrified to meet a child with such injuries who would claim that his father inflicted them. Perhaps I would get very emotional, but I think it would be important for me to try to keep calm and properly report the incident according to the law. If Pablo’s situation was improved due to my intervention, I know I would feel accomplished because I did the right thing.

The highest number of children neglected, physically abused, and sexually abused in the United States from 1990 to 2012 was observed in 1995. I am not sure why the increase happened that year specifically, as I cannot identify any major political or economic turbulence at the time, but based on the causes of abuse described above, it can be assumed that the incidence of abuse is linked to socioeconomic factors. The neglect and abuse statistics show that 1995 was a challenging year in terms of the social environment in the country.

According to the statistics, female children are victims of abuse more often than male children. This can be explained by the fact that girls may be less capable of protecting themselves compared to boys who are more likely to demonstrate aggression and resistance to abuse. Also, it can be argued that girls are more frequently targeted by abusers because the former is perceived by the latter as more vulnerable and less likely to resist or confront their abusers.

The age group in which children were abused and neglected the most was two to five years.

Monica case study

Monica, 7, displays difficulties sitting. Based on the research on abuse presented above, I as an educator should plan how to address Monica’s case. My actions will include talking to the child and reporting my suspicions.

First of all, it is necessary to talk to Monica to find out if she is in pain. In a very delicate manner, I should ask her if anyone hurt her recently. During the conversation, Monica should feel safe and protected, which I can attain by being open and showing genuine care and support.

Whether Monica tells me she was abused or keeps silent, I should report my suspicions of child abuse to the DFPS. According to the law, I will tell everything I know and explicitly explain the extent of my certainty that Monica has been subjected to sexual abuse. Further, I will call the hotline again to find out what measures Child Protective Services took.

I genuinely believe that this is my obligation to report the case. If Monica is sexually abused, I need to ensure that proper measures are taken. If she is not, I will still think that my precautions were justified.

Bulman, May. “ Child Emotional Abuse Reports Surge 200% amid Cuts to Child Protection Services .” Independent , 2017. Web.

Child Welfare Information Gateway. What Is Child Abuse and Neglect? Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms . 2013. Web.

Child Welfare Pre-Service Training. The Effects of Abuse and Neglect on Child Development: Participant Guide . 2011. Web.

Hamon, Jordan D., and Paul Schrodt. “Do Parenting Styles Moderate the Association Between Family Conformity Orientation and Young Adults’ Mental Well-Being?” Journal of Family Communication , vol. 12, no. 2, 2012, pp. 151-166.

“ If You Suspect Child Abuse, Will You Act? ” Editorial. Chicago Tribune . 2017. Web.

Lin, Yi-Ching, and Robert E. Billingham. “Relationship between Parenting Styles and Gender Role Identity in College Students.” Psychological Reports , vol. 114, no. 1, 2014, pp. 250-271.

“ Making the Call: Reporting Abuse/Neglect by Phone .” YouTube , uploaded by Texas DFPS. 2016. Web.

“ Physical Abuse: Who Is Affected .” NSPCC . Web.

“ Unemployment Triggers Increase in Child Neglect, According to New Research .” Medical Xpress . 2017. Web.

Williams, Kathryn E., et al. “Inflexible Parents, Inflexible Kids: A 6-year Longitudinal Study of Parenting Style and the Development of Psychological Flexibility in Adolescents.” Journal of Youth and Adolescence , vol. 41, no. 8, 2012, pp. 1053-1066.

• Parental Investment Theory
• Children's Right to Be Parented by the Best Parent
• Newman’s sermon on the feast of St. Monica in the year 1856
• Utilitarian Permissive Concept for Women's Right to Choose Abortion
• The Three Parenting Styles
• Parenting Styles: China vs. North America
• How to Put a Baby to Bed?
• Working Mothers and Child Development
• Children's Success Requirements in Parents' Views
• Authoritarian vs. Permissive Parenting Styles
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2020, October 13). Parenting Style and the Development. https://ivypanda.com/essays/parenting-style-and-the-development/

"Parenting Style and the Development." IvyPanda , 13 Oct. 2020, ivypanda.com/essays/parenting-style-and-the-development/.

IvyPanda . (2020) 'Parenting Style and the Development'. 13 October.

IvyPanda . 2020. "Parenting Style and the Development." October 13, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/parenting-style-and-the-development/.

1. IvyPanda . "Parenting Style and the Development." October 13, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/parenting-style-and-the-development/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Parenting Style and the Development." October 13, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/parenting-style-and-the-development/.