Parenting Styles
Diana Baumrind, Ph.D., a respected clinical and developmental psychologist, identified three types of parenting styles: permissive, democratic (formerly referred to as authoritative), and authoritarian.
The three styles differ widely in regards to discipline and in its impact on children’s development.
Permissive parenting: This parenting style holds few behavioral expectations for the child. A permissive parent often responds to a child’s needs without limits and would rather be a best friend to their child than disappoint him. This dynamic makes it difficult for a child to learn to control his impulses or accept responsibility for his own actions. When in trouble, the child might tend to blame others, and in social situations this child may seek to control his peers. This style of parenting can lead to a feeling of insecurity in a child, as there is a lack of the dependability that clear consistent limits provide. Additionally, role confusion can emerge when the child must provide himself with the limits his parent has not.
Democratic/Authoritative parenting: This style of parenting is characterized by clearly stated and consistent behavioral guidelines, open dialogue about rules and behaviors, and a child-centered approach. Limits are clear but flexible when appropriate. Democratic parenting encourages the child to be independent. Discipline is used as an opportunity to teach a child how to make better choices and is implemented with some discussion. Parents are not afraid of saying “no” or experiencing their children’s negative reactions. This external sense of security results in children having an internal sense of security that leads to higher self-esteem and independence. Children raised in a democratic parenting household are generally successful, articulate, happy with themselves, and generous with others.
Authoritarian parenting: This style of parenting is characterized by rigid rules and high expectations. Authoritarian parents dictate rules without explanation to or discussion with their children. Authoritarian parents are most likely to use corporal forms of punishment. Children of authoritarian parents often lack social competence, rarely take initiatives, are socially withdrawn, and look to others to decide what's right. These children lack spontaneity and curiosity. They are taught to behave well in the short term, but once they achieve independence, they often rebel against authority.
See also:
Conflict
For further reading:
www.parentingstyles.co.uk/parenting-styles-diana-baumrind.html
Positive Discipline for Preschoolers, by Jane Nelsen, Cheryl Erwin & Roslyn Duffy. Random House