Parenting Types

Every parent and kid is different, and there is not a single parenting type that fits all. But experts have identified some common parenting styles based on support and control exercised by parents on their kids. Each of these parenting types has certain pros and cons. Read on to know more and find the best one for you.

Various types of parenting styles:

Here are the different parenting types:

i. Authoritarian parenting- The strict approach:

Parents usually intend to make kids obedient through this type of parenting style. They set high expectations in this approach. Firm rules are set, and inputs from kids might not be taken in the process. Kids are punished when they fail to abide by the rules.

Impact on kids: Authoritarian parenting results in kids' rigid feeding and sleeping schedules. Though it is understandable to teach kids to be obedient, strictness prevents children from making impulsive choices. This is because they have a fear of being restricted by their parents. Though such kids are disciplined, have high academic achievement, and are self-motivated, the pressure experienced by them makes them internalize behaviors such as feelings of loneliness, afraid, or withdrawal.

ii. Authoritative parenting: The balanced approach:

In this case, parents are firm but supportive too. It is a type of natural coaching with logical consequences. They don't force kids to follow the rules. Instead, explain to them the rules and expectations of family. Still, they hold the kids accountable when they do something not expected. They create schedules for feeding and sleeping for the kids but are open to making adjustments to ensure that the plan works best for their babies. The rules related to health and safety become non-negotiable when the kid becomes a toddler. Still, they ensure that this is enforced logically and respectfully.

Impact on kids: Kids under authoritative parenting are usually cheerful, friendly, and cooperative. Besides being goal-oriented, they are self-reliant too.

iii. Attachment parenting: Keeping kids close to the caregiver:

Parents in attachment parenting style believe that the kids need to be close to them during the initial few years. It resembles authoritative parenting but focuses more on attachment and physical touch. They exercise this style during the kid's toddler years when the kid needs to be close to their caregiver. There is minimal separation between parents and the kid in this type.

Impact on kids:

Kids in this parenting type can easily cope with stress and adverse situations, as they have all the tools available to efficiently deal with the challenges. Parents might find the approach challenging because they might not take stock of their own needs as most of the time is spent in tending the kids.

Sometimes kids may find it tough to transition independently from their parents, such as while joining preschool. This is because of the high dependency on parents for emotional reassurance.

iv. Permissive parenting: The nurturing approach:

This is a warmer approach but not consistent in setting rules and exercising discipline. Parents act as friends to their kids rather than be their role models. They give a lot of freedom because many actions aren't monitored closely.

Parents don't even set their feeding and sleeping schedule. Thus, they can snack anytime on growing up to be a toddler and later. Neither do they have a bedtime nor feel the need to clean up the toys after playing.

Impact on kids:

In this parenting style, kids often grow up without taking much responsibility. They don't have a well-structured day, but they are free-thinkers who can express themselves fearlessly.

iv. Free-range parenting: A smoother approach:

This style resembles permissive parenting, as it has fewer guidelines for the kids. The only difference is that such parents aim at making the kids more independent by letting them do all that they are capable of. Kids are not forced to do as per their parents' wishes.

A free-range parenting style can be adapted for kids of any age. Such kids are allowed to explore new environments without any interruption and help but ensure that they are safe. Parents often let their kids play unsupervised in their backyard.

Impact on kids:

Kids under free-range parenting style grow up to be more resilient and can handle challenges and setbacks in a better way. It encourages them to be creative and solve problems on their own. The only drawback is that some parents may feel insecure and neglectful about letting kids do everything independently, so the definition of "free-range" varies between individuals.

vi. Uninvolved parenting:

Parents cannot fulfill the physical or emotional needs of kids of this type. Kids get little supervision. During the infant stage, they fail to meet the basic food, shelter, and sleep requirements. Similarly, toddlers cannot check the safety hazards, the screen shows on television, and don't provide proper vetting to the caregiver, or restrict exposure to outsiders.

Impact on kids:

Kids in this parenting style grow up to adults with low self-esteem. They find it difficult to establish a healthy relationship imbibed with trust with others.

Conclusion

Since every family is different, there are various approaches parents can adopt because everyone cant fit into a single parenting style. Some can try combining two or three approaches, but that should help a kid grow into a healthy adult with values. The personalities of kids and parents and the values that need to be imbibed need to be taken into account to understand which approach would best suit them. Successful parents always know when to switch their parenting style based on the situation. So, it need not be the same parenting type throughout the parenting journey.

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