What is a Parent?

PARENTING STYLES

Types of Parenting Styles and Outcomes

Most parent can be classified into three main types by the style in which they guide their children. As we discuss each, think about where your own parents fits most appropriately. Do each of your parents use the same style? Do you fit the outcome?

Authoritarian: Limits without Freedom.

Definition:Parents’ word is law, parents have

absolute control. Misconduct is punishedAffection and praise are rarely giveParents try to control children's’

behavior and attitudesThey value unquestioned obedienceChildren are told what to do, how to do

it, and where to do it, and when to do it.

Outcomes of Authoritarian Style

ObedientDistrustfulDiscontent WithdrawnUnhappyHostileNot High

AchieversOften Rebel

Children from authoritarian homes are so strictly controlled, either by punishment or guilt, that they are often prevented from making a conscious choice about particular behavior because they are overly concerned about what their parents will do.

Authoritarian Parent ExampleWonder Years Jack Arnold 2:51 - 4

:17

Permissive: Freedom without limits.

Definition:Parents allow their children to do their own

thing.Little respect for order and routine.Parents make few demands on children.Impatience is hidden.Discipline is laxParents are resources rather than standard

makersRarely punishNon controlling, non-demandingUsually warmChildren walk all over the parents

Outcome of Permissive Parenting

AggressiveLeast self—

reliantLeast self-

controlledLeast

exploratoryMost

unhappy

Children from permissive homes receive so little guidance that they often become uncertain and anxious about whether they are doing the right thing.

Permissive Parent ExamplesMrs. George Pt 1 Mrs. George Pt 2

Democratic: Freedom within limits.

Definition: Middle ground between the two above Stress freedom along with rights of others and

responsibilities of all Parents set limits and enforce rules Willing to listen receptively to child’s requests

and questions. Both loves and limits Children contribute to discussion of issues and

make some of their own decisions Exert firm control when necessary, but explain

reasoning behind it. Respect children’s interest, opinions, unique

personalities. Loving, consistent, demanding Combine control with encouragement Reasonable expectations and realistic

standards.

Outcomes of Democratic Style

HappyMostly self-reliantMostly self-

controlledContent, friendly,

generousCooperativeHigh-achiever’Less likely to be

seriously disruptive or delinquent

Children whose parents expect them to perform well, to fulfill commitments, and to participate actively in family duties, as well as family fun, learn how to formulate goals. They also experience the satisfaction that comes from meeting responsibilities and achieving success.

Democratic Parent ExampleMr and Mrs

Walsh Beverley Hills 90210

Changing Parenting StylesSome parents change their

parenting style with different children. For example, many parents are strict with their first child but become more democratic with the next one. By the time the third child arrives, the same parents may take a more permissive approach. Moreover, in some families, the father has one style of parenting and the mother has another.

Changing Parenting StylesSome parents are consistent in their style of

parenting until they experience a crisis or a great amount of stress. Then their style changes. A parent who is generally democratic may suddenly become very strict when under pressure. Sometimes parents under stress resort to using the same type of behavior that their parents used with them in similar situations. If this involves physical punishment, it can be very harmful. Instead, parents need to learn how to remain calm and consistent even in stressful situations.

Predicting Parenting StylesYou have probably observed

differences in the parenting behavior of your parents compared to those of a friend. When you become a parent, there will be differences between your style of parenting and other parents’ style.

According to various experts, parenting styles are influenced by a number of factors.

Predicting Parenting StylesCultural background

◦ Common expectations and practices amount cultural groups

Child-rearing goals◦ Goals may range from personal behaviors to

career choices◦ ex. Value education expectations about

school workPersonality patterns

◦ Everyone parent has a unique personality influenced by heredity and environment

◦ People act and respond in different ways to different situations

Predicting Parenting StylesRole models

◦Most people learn parenting styles from their parents or caregivers

◦Result couples may disagree about styles because they had different role models

Environment◦Surroundings in which the family

lives Large city vs. rural area

◦Weather, Time of day, Season