From authoritarian to permissive: Unraveling four major parenting styles

Similarly, Dr Foram Matalia, Psychologist, Bhatia Hospital, Mumbai said that these styles influence feelings of security, the personal meaning given to experiences, and the ability to develop and maintain intimacy with others.

Recently, Dr Santosh Yadav, a paediatrician took to Instagram to share various parenting styles. “Did you know that your parenting style reflects on your child’s behaviour? If your child is stubborn, angry, loves everyone, listens to you or is a well-behaved child, it depends on your parenting style,” he said in the post.

Take a look.

Further, he added that there are 4 types of parenting styles. First is authoritative, in which you are very responsive, you listen to the child, you ask questions, and you activate the left brain. This is best.

“Authoritative parent follow what is widely understood as the preferred approach. Such parents are more pragmatic and flexible. They set clear boundaries. but also encourage children’s independence within those limits. Discipline in such families may be more supportive than punitive, and as children get older, their independence increases. Children of authoritative parents may have more highly developed self-control and self-reliance,” noted Dr Matalia.

Second is authoritarian, where you are the boss and you expect the child to do everything you say. This is not good.

“An authoritarian parent seeks to maintain a high level of control over their children. They may set and adhere to a strict set of rules and are more likely to support and take part in corporal punishment such as spanking. Children of highly authoritarian parents may struggle socially and may be likely to become authoritarian parents themselves,” said Dr Matalia.

Third is permissive in which you do whatever the child says. You listen to everything the child says. That is also not good.

It is vital to consistently reevaluate your parenting style to ensure that it’s fostering healthy growth and development. (Source: Freepik)

“Indulgent (or permissive) parents may be attentive and warm but may not set many rules for their children. They may prioritise being their child’s friend over being their parent. Research suggests that the children of permissive parents may show higher levels of creativity but may also feel entitled and be more interested in taking rather than giving in their own relationships,” shared Dr Matalia.

Fourth is uninvolved or neglectful. This is very rare in India.

“Neglectful parents (also known as uninvolved or disengaged) take on a limited parenting role. They may not spend as much time as other parents in conversation, play, or other activities, and may not bother to set many house rules. Some children of neglectful parents may resist rules outside of the home and struggle with self-control,” explained Dr Matalia.

How do parenting styles affect a child’s behaviour?

For children, parents are the “all powerful” center of their universe. Parenting styles have a deep impact on a child’s behavior. They shape the child’s understanding of themselves, social relations, and the world around them. Children internalise parents’ negative opinion and incorporate it into their view of themselves.

Explaining this, Bhagirath said, “An authoritative parenting style, characterised by warmth, clear expectations, and consistent discipline, tends to foster children who exhibit self-control, confidence, and a healthy level of independence. But permissive parenting styles, with minimal structure and few limits, can lead to children displaying impulsivity, difficulty following rules, and challenges with self-regulation. Authoritarian parenting, which emphasises strict rules and punishment, may result in children displaying lower self-esteem, rebellion, or even aggression. Neglectful parenting, where parental involvement and attention are lacking, can contribute to feelings of insecurity, emotional withdrawal, and behavioral problems.”

As for the best parenting approach, she said that there is no universally best parenting style. Effectiveness of a parenting style depends on various factors, including the child’s temperament, cultural context and individual needs. “However, an authoritative parenting style tends to promote positive outcomes. The main reason being that it allows a healthy balance between nurturing and setting clear expectations, fostering self-esteem, self-control and positive social skills,” the expert concluded.

For all the latest Parenting News, download Indian Express App.