Today’s guest is Ashlee of Live Essentially
Parenting is the most important thing that you will ever do. It is the most important job that you will ever have, the biggest responsibility you will ever be accountable for, and the most rewarding experience in your life, if it is done right. But, what is right? How do we determine right from wrong when it comes to parenting? Are certain parenting styles more effective than others? What works for one parent might not work for another. How do we determine which parenting style works best for our children?
Parenting Styles
In the 1960’s psychologist, Diana Baumrind introduced three basic parenting styles after extensive observation and research of parent-child interaction and child reactions. These three parenting styles are:
Authoritarian Parenting- Parent is boss, and holds all power and control, involves structure and strict rules, and punishment if rules are broken
Authoritative Parenting- Provides guidelines and sets standards for children, offers nurturing and supportive guidance to helping their child become responsible and independent
Permissive Parenting- Non-confrontational parenting with minimal expectations or guidelines, more of a friend than a parent
Later in 1983 a new parenting style was introduced, known as uninvolved or negligent parenting.
Uninvolved Parenting- Parents lack involvement in most areas of child’s life, providing only necessities and not meeting emotional/physical needs
Of course these four parenting styles are very basic, black and white, but in the realm of parenting there are plenty of grey areas and sub-styles, i.e. gentle parenting or attachment parenting. It is difficult to define parenting to just one category or style especially at different stages in a child’s life. For example, perhaps when a child is younger it is easier to take an authoritative approach and explain to them and reason with them why they cannot ride their bike in the middle of the road, but when you are dealing with a rebellious teenager who refuses to accept any logic or reasoning, you might find yourself becoming a bit more strict in hopes that they will understand. However, there has been proven studies to show that one parenting style far surpasses the others in terms of overall effectiveness and positive outcome of the children’s behavior, independence, etc.
Which parenting style is best?
Studies have shown that Authoritative parenting has been most effective in child development. This style of parenting increases academic success, psychosocial maturity, self-reliance, autonomy, and social behavior. By raising your children in a warm and nurturing environment, giving them guidance, but loosening the reigns, you are allowing your child to discover the world and their individuality, creating strong and confident children. Authoritative parenting provides a nice balance for both parent and child, establishing a trusting relationship and strong bond between the two.
Parenting styles can be influenced by many factors including; culture, family history, demographics, age, education, socioeconomic status, and many more. Ultimately, all of these factors should be set aside and maternal/paternal instinct along with the child’s needs should be the main focus of parenting. The most important thing about being a parent is recognizing your child’s individuality. Children are such amazing little beings, filled with life and curiosity. It is our job as parents to meet the needs of our children to the best of our ability. To tailor our parenting to best suit them and help them grow to become responsible, respectful, and well-rounded individuals.
Related post: Why You Shouldn’t Yell at Your Child and What to Do Instead
Hi there! I am Ashlee Bradshaw from Live Essentially. I am a natural living wife and mother, who is passionate about all things green and crunchy. I love sharing my DIY recipes, natural living tips, frugal tips, and anything that else to help inspire others to live a naturally happy and healthy lifestyle. Connect with me on Facebook, Google+, and Pinterest.
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