Erin Hendry - Year 12 CAFS 2012 - Parenting Styles

AuthoritarianDemandingInflexibleExpects obedienceDictator-likeNo compromise

Leads to child becoming:DistantResentfulUnhappyRespectful

Appropriate to use:During emergency situations i.e. fire, crossing roads etc

Not appropriate to use:When a child does not understand somethingWhen a child achieves success in something

DemocraticFair/equalHas set rulesExplains the necessity of rules and the consequences if they are not followedFree sharing of values and ideas

Leads to child becoming:RespectfulIncluded/listened toTrusting of family membersTo feel understood

Appropriate to use:In most situations, especially from a young age so that a child understands rules, consequences and how to behave appropriately

Not appropriate to use:During emergency situations

Erin Hendry - Year 12 CAFS 2012 - Parenting Styles

Permissive/IndulgentWeak parentLenientNo limitsBased around the child’s personal wants

Leads to child becoming:DisrespectfulLazyFeeling a sense of power over their parent and other authorities

Appropriate to use:When rewarding the child for doing well in somethingOn special occasions i.e. birthdays

Not appropriate to use:During emergency situationsDuring early years of childhood when child is learning about appropriate behaviour and rules

NegligentDistantDoesn’t fulfill needs of childDoes not put child’s needs ahead of their own desires/needsUsually associated with addictions i.e. gambling, substance abuse, alcoholism

Leads to child:Becoming neglectedFeeling exploitedHaving a higher risk of illness (both physical and mental) and deathHaving a higher likelihood to run awayHaving a higher likelihood to be taken into foster care, DoCS etc

Appropriate to use:Never.

Not appropriate to use:Always.

Erin Hendry - Year 12 CAFS 2012 - Parenting Styles

Which style is best?Parenting is not a simple process which can be completed by following a list of steps. It involves trial and error and is entirely determined by each individual’s -

whether is be the parent/s’ or child’s - environment, values, principles, perspective and ideas. A combination of authoritarian, permissive and

democratic is often best, but depending on each situation and individual. Some styles suit different people better, and work more efficiently for different parents/

children. It is key to use the correct style of parenting during emergencies or crises, or situations with a high emotional level. Parenting is a process that

cannot be simplified every person raises their children in different ways, but as long as a child’s needs are fulfilled, the parent has achieved success.