Parenting Styles

Analyzing Parenting Styles

There are many recognized styles of parenting, enough to make a well-meaning parent's head spin. In actuality, there is no need to find a label for your parenting style. As long as your style works for you and your family, you really needn't worry about titles.

While there are many variables in individual parenting styles, most differences center on two areas: discipline and parental involvement.

Should You Change?

Chances are, you already know whether or not you need a new parenting style. If your home is relatively harmonious and your children pleasant and happy, your style is probably working. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Do my children treat each other with respect?
• Do they treat me with respect?
• Do my children seem happy most of the time?
• Am I involved in their daily life?
• Do I spend most of my time talking to my children or at them?
• Do I spend a lot of time punishing my kids?

If the atmosphere is your home is warm and loving, with everyone's needs being met, your style is working. If not, read on to find a more appropriate parenting style.

Authoritarian Parenting

Authoritarian parents are extremely strict, with an emphasis on rules and discipline above all else. Parents with this style allow no "back talk" or disagreement; authoritarian families are more dictatorship than democracy. In an autoritarian home, there are usually many rules, and all are strictly enforced. In addition, parents with this parenting style can often be seen as cold, offering little to no affection.

Authoritative Parenting

Authoritative parents, on the other hand, are much more democratic. While these parents do enforce rules, they are more likely to listen to their kids' opinions. Conversation in this type of home is usually two-way, with give and take on each side. Parents often have a few rigid rules, and leave other areas open for discussion. Those with this parenting style often lean towards natural consequences and positive reinforcement.

Permissive Parenting

Permissive parents have an "anything goes" attitude towards childrearing. These parents are often their kids' best friends. While permissive parents are often warm and loving, they fail to set boundaries for their kids. Children in permissive households are often free to choose their own mealtimes, activities, and bedtime. Discipline is usually nonexistant.

Attachment Parenting

Attachment parenting is a style of parenting that focuses on the parent-child relationship. Parents strive to be warm and responsive to their kids' needs. The belief is that many behavior problems disappear when parents and children are in synch. Like authoritative parents, attached parents often believe in natural consequences and positive discipline.

Other Resources for Parenting Styles

If you would like to learn more than the various styles of childrearing, LoveToKnow Kids recommends the following books:

• The Attachment Parenting Book
• Raising Respectful Children in a Disrespectful World
• Parenting with Love and Logic