Psychologists Baumrind, Maccoby, and Martin used observations and interviews to identify parenting styles. The researchers assessed disciplinary strategies, communication styles, displays of nurture and warmth, and expectations of maturity and control. Their research suggested that parents fall into four main categories of parenting styles: authoritarian, uninvolved, permissive, and authoritative.
Authoritarian parents have high expectations of behavior but often ignore the wants and needs of their children. They tend to punish children for mistakes without taking the time to ensure a full understanding of what was done wrong and how it can be avoided in the future. Baumrind referred to this style as “spare the rod, spoil the child parents.”
The positives of the authoritarian approach are obedience and proficiency. The negatives are that these children are more likely to lie and behave appropriately to avoid punishment. Children raised by authoritarian parents report lower levels of happiness and competence.
Uninvolved parents place few demands on their children and display low desires to respond and communicate minimally. Uninvolved parents meet their children’s basic needs but do not take the time to develop secure attachments. They provide very little guidance, structure, rules, and support to help their children feel safe and secure. Children raised by uninvolved parents struggle to self-regulate their emotions and establish healthy social relationships. They frequently develop symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Children raised by uninvolved parents are the least likely to be successful members of society. Sadly, I have seen a tremendous increase in this style since “smart devices” have become common among families.
Permissive parents tend to demand very little from their children. This style of parenting is often called “gentle parenting” because it focuses on collaboration more than expectation. Permissive parents prioritize fun and a nurturing environment.
They have few rules and encourage children to make their own decisions. Children raised by these parents are more likely to be self-sufficient and independent but have weak impulse control and self-regulation skills.