Are You One of These Parents?

The Olympics of Parenting Styles

Ah, parenting! That age-old practice where everyone thinks they’ve got it nailed down, but most are just winging it. Let’s dive into the four primary parenting styles, shall we? And remember, there’s no “one-size-fits-all” here, but some sizes definitely fit better than others. I guess ultimately it’s up to you what kind of kid you want to raise.

1. Authoritative Parenting: The Gold Standard?

Meet the authoritative parents: the ones who’ve seemingly read every parenting book in existence and have a PhD in child psychology (or so they’d have you believe). They’re the ones setting boundaries while also being the shoulder to cry on. They value open communication, but good luck trying to get past their well-reasoned rules and consequences. Their kids always seem to know better too.

So what does research say?

Studies have consistently shown that children raised by these know-it-alls tend to have higher self-esteem, better academic performance, and develop great resiliency. But hey, no pressure! For instance, a study titled “Impact of parenting practices on adolescent achievement: Authoritative parenting, school involvement, and encouragement to succeed” found that authoritative parenting positively impacts adolescent achievement. Show offs.

2. Authoritarian Parenting: Because ‘Because I Said So’ is Totally a Valid Reason

Enter the authoritarian parents: the drill sergeants of the parenting world. Their motto? “My way or the highway”, “Do as I say…NOW” and many more hits. Expect a lot of finger-wagging and very little chit-chat. If you’re looking for a heart-to-heart, you might want to look elsewhere. Maybe call grandma and ask what happen, why is her kid such an a$$@!e.

Do you even need research? Well here is some.

While their kids might be the poster children for obedience, they’re also racking up points in the low self-esteem, high aggression, and “I can’t wait to move out” departments. But hey, everything is quiet and at least the house is tidy! A study titled “Beyond parental control and authoritarian parenting style: Understanding Chinese parenting through the cultural notion of training” delves into the nuances of authoritarian parenting in different cultural contexts. Mom, Dad … watch your backs.

3. Permissive Parenting: Where Boundaries Go to Die

Ah, the permissive parents. Ever wanted a friend more than a parent? Look no further. Rules? What are those? These parents are all about “going with the flow” and “letting kids be kids” (or whatever other clichés they picked up from their 70s parenting manuals).

Research Maybe!

Their kids might be the life of the party, but when it comes to self-discipline and academic achievements, well… let’s just say there’s room for improvement. But who needs grades when you have self-esteem, right? You can just become a grifter with charisma when you grow up, sorry I meant an Influencer. A study titled “Authoritative, authoritarian, and permissive parenting practices: Development of a new measure” provides insights into the development and characteristics of these parenting styles.

4. Neglectful Parenting: Wait, There’s a Kid Around Here Somewhere?

Last and, well, least, we have the neglectful parents. Parenting seems to be more of a side gig for them, they kind of fell into it. They’re often too busy with, well, anything other than parenting. If you’re looking for them, they’re probably not at the parent-teacher conference. They want you to know that they are always busy, apparently in a way that doesn’t involve kids. Their kids are probably BFF’s with those charismatic grifters, sorry again, I mean Influencers.

What does research say?

Unsurprisingly, their kids often feel like they drew the short straw in the parent lottery. Quite honestly these kids haven’t experienced much parenting. They probably don’t believe in the family Challenges? They’ve got plenty, from low self-esteem to being the rebels without a cause. A study titled “Neurobiological and psychiatric consequences of child abuse and neglect” sheds light on the long-term effects of neglectful parenting.