Four Parenting Styles and Their Pros and Cons

There are four categories of styles when it comes to parenting children, and while following one style may not be the best parenting idea, knowing about the different approaches and using them can help parents send their kids in the right direction. The different styles of parenting can be blended into one to ensure smooth parenthood, as each has its pros and cons. Let's learn more.

Authoritarian parenting is known for its strict rules and high expectations. This style allows little room for mistakes or independence. Parents who apply this approach rarely offer explanations for their rules, leading to children who are well-behaved out of fear. However, while obedience is achieved, it often comes at a cost. Children raised by authoritarian parents may suffer from low self-esteem and poor decision-making abilities due to the lack of autonomy and nurturing.

The authoritative style is often seen as the "best" way to parent. It blends high expectations with a supportive environment. Authoritative parents maintain control but also encourage independence and self-discipline.

Uninvolved parenting is characterized by neglect and unresponsiveness. People who take this approach to parenthood meet only the most basic needs of their children but show little emotional involvement. The lack of structure and emotional support in uninvolved parenting leads to significant issues for children. They often struggle with boundaries, display behavioral problems, and are more prone to mental health issues and delinquent behaviors.

Permissive parents are warm but set few rules or boundaries for their children. Permissive parents struggle to enforce limits, leading to impulsive behavior in their kids. While there are some benefits, such as high self-esteem and outgoing personalities, the lack of structure can lead to unhealthy habits. Children raised this way may have difficulty regulating emotions and accepting limits in other settings.