There are many different parenting styles to choose from. Some of the most common parenting styles include authoritarian, permissive, authoritative, and overprotective. Educating yourself on the various parenting styles is wise when you’re becoming a mom.
Authoritarian Style
The first style is parent-driven, with strict rules and punishments. This form of parenting is generally a one-way communication structure. Usually, the parent enforces the rules, with little input from the child. These parents have high expectations for their children and limited flexibility.
Children with authoritarian parents are typically well-behaved because of the consequences they might face for bad behavior. These children are more likely to listen to directions, but they could also show signs of aggression and find themselves unable to make their own decisions later.
Permissive Style
The second common parenting style is the opposite of authoritarian. This style is more child-driven and encourages the child to develop their own solutions and conclusions. Communication stays open between parent and child, but with more input from the child.
There are usually no expectations of the child, and the parent remains warm and nurturing. Permissive parents use the tactic of acting more like a friend than a parent. Kids with permissive parents have great self-esteem, but they could develop unhealthy habits from a lack of structure.
Authoritative Style
Authoritative parenting is a more commonly used style with many benefits. These parents remain the authority figures, but they allow for more input from the child. Rules are thoroughly explained, and communication is frequent and appropriate to the child’s age.
Parents that choose this style still use disciplinary actions, but these actions are used for support instead of punishment. A style such as authoritative parenting may require more patience, but the outcomes can be more rewarding. Children with parents under this style tend to be more confident and responsible.
Overprotective Style
Lastly, this parenting style mainly relies on the fear of something happening to your child. These parents constantly monitor their child’s every action. The parent often does not choose this style; it mostly chooses them.
Overprotective parents will limit the child’s activities and fixate on every decision the child makes. In most cases, the parent must learn to avoid being an overprotective parent. These children will probably develop attachment issues, but they have tremendous street-smart skills.
Which Parenting Styles Suit You?
Parenting does not have to be linear, nor does the style. Often, parents will choose aspects from many different types of styles and roll them into one. It’s okay to start with permissive parenting and then implement authoritative parenting later down the road.
Much of the time, parenting comes naturally. Making a conscious decision to change is a mighty feat. Always keep in mind the temperament of your child and the relationship you wish to have with them, and the rest will figure itself out. It’s okay to make mistakes and learn from them.
Author Bio
Christina Duron is a writer living in the Chicagoland area. Her passion for writing and mental health help create thought provoking and engaging pieces and hopes to use them to empower mothers and women to embrace the beauty of motherhood.
