A huge 88% of parents believe that parenting today is more difficult than it used to be. Thanks to new research into parenting styles and the growth of social media, there is a lot more judgment out there.
And parents are more afraid they are “doing it wrong” than ever before.
But is there a right or wrong way to parent or are there just different styles? This guide will walk you through the four parenting styles defined by psychologist Diana Baumrind in the 1960s plus two new ones.
Hands-Off
Hands-off parenting is also known as uninvolved or neglectful parenting. Hands-off parents have little to no expectations of their children and do not respond to their needs. Children find their parents unloving and their cognitive development is poor.
It is the worst parenting style. If you think you have this approach to parenting and are in a child custody battle, you should seek immediate and professional help. The hands-off style is one of the big parenting mistakes to avoid.
Permissive
Permissive parenting is also known as indulgent parenting. Parents are undemanding of their children and give them few responsibilities. But, unlike hands-off parenting, the parents are loving and “give in” to their child’s desires often.
They are likely to let their children stay up past their bedtime and give them extra treats. But this type of parenting style does not give children what they really need. Children need boundaries or else they will not fare well in a rule-based society.
Authoritative
Authoritative parenting is one of the better parenting styles. It is more likely to result in children becoming well-adjusted adults. Authoritative parents have high (but realistic) standards and set reasonable boundaries.
This parenting style avoids empty threats and harsh punishment. Instead, it encourages self-confidence and self-discipline. It is one of the hardest parenting styles to master but the most rewarding.
Authoritarian
Very different from authoritative, an authoritarian approach to parenting involves high expectations. And the punishment for breaking rules is also way too high.
The thought process of authoritarian parents is that their children will be obedient and driven. But, strict action without cause leads to raising children who do not know where the boundaries are and have poor judgment.
Helicopter
Helicopter parenting is a new style of parenting. These types of parents are too focused on the successes of their children and they micro-manage them.
Children of helicopter parents develop low self-esteem. They are often unable to believe they can achieve by themselves.
Attachment
Another new parenting style, attachment parenting is often only applicable to raising children up to three years old. It is the practice of breastfeeding, holding, and sleeping with the child to achieve close body contact almost 24/7. This results in a close emotional bond.
Many regard it as a healthy parenting style, but attachment parents should be mindful of not tending to their child’s every need. They could slip into permissive parenting without realizing they are.
Parenting Styles To Raise Well-Adjusted Kids
Now you have more information on the main parenting styles, you will be able to choose the right style for you. You will never get it right 100% of the time but as long as you have your child’s best interest at heart, they will be fine.
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