The 4 Types of Parenting Styles & Their Effects on Children

What Are the Different Types of Parenting Styles?

The four primary parenting styles include authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, and uninvolved. Clinical psychologist Diana Baumrind coined the original three philosophies (authoritative, authoritarian, and permissive) before Eleanor Maccoby and John Martin later introduced the uninvolved approach.¹

Each parenting style differs in levels of demandingness and responsiveness. Many child psychologists consider authoritative parenting the ‘best’ practice because it balances parental support and warmth with appropriate discipline.

Baumrind’s parenting styles have been widely studied in psychology and are often used to understand the impact of parenting on child development. It is important to note that while these styles provide a framework for understanding parenting, there is no one “right” way to parent, and each family may have their own unique approach.

Parenting Practices Vs. Parenting Styles

Parenting styles refer to the overall approach and emotional climate that parents create in their interactions with their children. Parenting practices, also known as parenting methods, techniques, or child-rearing practices, involve the specific actions and behaviors that parents use to raise their children. Parenting styles provide a broad framework for understanding the parent-child relationship, whereas parenting practices are the distinct strategies used to implement that framework.

For example, a parent who believes in setting boundaries and fostering independence may adopt an authoritative parenting style by using practices such as allowing their child to make age-appropriate decisions under certain limitations. On the other hand, a parent who prioritizes warmth and nurturing may adopt a more permissive style, employing techniques like offering comfort and support without enforcing strict rules. Ultimately, the combination of parenting styles and practices shapes the overall environment a parent creates.

1. Authoritarian Parenting

Authoritarian parenting styles include high parental demands for obedience, low warmth, and minimal affection for children. Authoritarian parents are strict and rigid, often using hostile control or punishment to maintain child compliance and obedience. Parents typically offer no explanation for rules or decisions and do not engage in discussion with the child.²

Families practicing an authoritarian parenting style value a high adherence to obeying rules and behaviors at request. Authoritarian parents often struggle to see or are unwilling to provide explanations or rationale for their decisions, regardless if these relate to discipline, emotional well-being, or communication.

Authoritarian parents may have learned their style from previous generations or cultural experiences. These types of parents are commonly referred to as disciplinarians and may believe that children should be “seen, not heard.”

Characteristics of an authoritarian parenting style include:

• Low parental responsiveness
• Intense criticism of children
• Strict rules and expectations for obedience
• Little consideration for children’s feelings
• Lack of interest in child’s behavioral needs
• One-sided communication between parents and children
• Limited to no explanation is given to children for decisions, rules, or expectations
• Limited to no affection or importance placed on sharing emotions
• Strained and insecure parent-child relationship

2. Authoritative Parenting

An authoritative parenting style includes high parental demand coupled with responsiveness. In other words, a parent provides a nurturing and warm environment while setting firm limits and boundaries.³ An authoritative parent-child relationship is democratic, and parents are willing to listen to their children’s viewpoints when explaining decisions.

Authoritative parenting styles encourage children’s independence. Parents understand and are sensitive to the fact that their children will have independent ideas and judgments. They are willing to listen to their children’s concerns and disagreements with an open mind. Unlike authoritarian parents, they provide reasoning and guidance for decisions and expectations.

Characteristics of an authoritative parenting style include:

• Provides consistent rules and expectations
• Emphasis on mental health and emotions
• Balances input and ideas from parent and child
• Creates an emotionally safe environment
• Parent-child relationship is healthy and supportive
• Modeling healthy boundaries and relationships for children
• Parental encouragement to be self-reliant
• Practicing flexibility
• Freedom for children to express and share feelings

3. Permissive Parenting

Permissive parenting styles practice high parental responsiveness and low demandingness. While permissive parents are supportive and attuned to their child’s emotional needs, they struggle to set boundaries and expectations. They may also be considered lenient, passive, indulgent, or “lax” with rulemaking and can enable their children into adulthood.

A permissive parent typically places their child’s emotional needs and happiness above all else. As long as the child is happy, the parent is happy. Permissive behavior can look like struggling to say “no” when a child asks for or demands something to avoid disappointing them. Permissive parents do little to provide guidance on how to behave socially.

Characteristics of a permissive parenting style include:

• Social and emotional needs are valued
• Parent-child relationship is emotionally secure and safe
• Communication remains open
• Children are allowed to make their own decisions
• Expectations are rarely set or enforced

4. Uninvolved Parenting

Uninvolved parenting styles include both low demandingness and responsiveness. Indifferent, uninvolved parenting does not provide expectations or support regarding children’s behaviors, emotions, or needs.

Uninvolved parenting, sometimes referred to as neglectful parenting, provides basic needs for the child, such as shelter, clothing, and food. The parent does not set expectations for social or academic behaviors. A child’s emotions, relationships, and self-esteem are not supported or validated. Unlike other types of parents, uninvolved parents may be dismissive, uninterested in, or ignore the child outside of providing basic needs.

It is important to note that uninvolved parenting is not always done intentionally or with malicious intent. A parent may have to work long hours or multiple jobs to provide for the family or have uninvolved parents themself.

Characteristics of an uninvolved parenting style include:

• Does not address emotional needs
• Does not set behavioral or academic expectations
• Parent-child relationship is extremely fragile or non-existent
• Parents allow children to tend to themselves
• Little parental involvement in child’s activities
• Lack of nurturing and affection

Examples of Parenting styles

Examples of parenting styles vary from family to family. For instance, authoritative parents may establish clear rules and expectations while offering support and warmth. On the other hand, authoritarian parents tend to enforce strict expectations and demand obedience, often using punishment as a means of control. These examples illustrate the diverse approaches parents can take in raising their children, with each style reflecting various parenting philosophies and priorities.

Below are examples of the four different parenting styles:

Examples of Authoritarian Parenting

Examples of authoritarian parenting can include common phrases such as “because I said so” or “what I say goes.” While these statements may be correct, they imply that acceptance and rule adherence should be automatic, even when confusing.

Further authoritarian parenting examples may include parental threats for poor childhood behavior. For instance, if a child asks for a toy at a store, the parent may say “no” without offering an explanation. The child reacts negatively, begins to complain, and raises their voice. The parent responds, “If you don’t stop, I will take all your toys when we get home.” This lack of parental understanding and empathy results in children automatically assuming that poor behavior will lead to dire consequences.

Examples of Authoritative Parenting

An example of authoritative parenting can include acknowledging emotions while correcting behavior. For instance, a child becomes angry at losing a game and breaks their controller. An authoritative parent would support and normalize the frustration instead of scolding the child. However, they would explain to their child that breaking valuables is not a healthy way to manage anger.

The parent might say, “I understand you are angry that you lost. It’s okay to be upset when we lose at a game. I would have been angry too. But, breaking our valuables when we are angry is not okay.” The parent might encourage the child to brainstorm how they might handle anger in a positive way, providing an opportunity for problem-solving and self-regulation.

Examples of Permissive Parenting

Permissive parents might say, “I never say no to my child,” or “My child chooses what they want to do.” Permissive parents struggle to set age-appropriate boundaries and instead shift decision-making to children. An example of permissive parenting may include allowing a child to make a choice that might negatively impact their well-being.

Imagine a child who wants to stay up later on a school night to finish watching a movie. A permissive parent will allow the child to stay up later, even though they must wake up and prepare for school in the morning. The permissive parent believes the child will make the “correct” decision for themselves and will learn from the experience. The permissive parent will be sympathetic to the fact the child is tired the next day but will not set a bedtime.

Examples of Uninvolved Parenting

An example of an uninvolved parent can include a parent returning home late from work and failing to make dinner for their child. The parent may tell the child “eat whatever” if they are hungry. The parent does not engage in conversation about the child’s day or assist the child in preparing a meal. The parent is too busy to check in with the child and believes they can manage their needs. However, a child may not have an understanding of what to prepare for a meal that is nutritious and filling.

Effects of the Types of Parenting Styles

The four parenting styles can affect child development differently, shaping child behavior, emotional well-being, and social skills. Authoritative approaches are often associated with positive outcomes, such as increased self-esteem, better academic performance, and improved social skills. Conversely, the remaining parenting styles may contribute to long-lasting impacts, such as higher levels of anxiety, lower academic achievement, and increased risk-taking behaviors. Understanding the effects of parenting styles on child development can help parents make informed decisions about their approach to raising their children.

Effects of Authoritarian Parenting on Children

Because authoritarian parents place high demands on obedience and good behavior, they will expect kids to accept parental judgment and values.⁴ This severely limits children’s ability to make judgments and decisions for themselves. Children of authoritarian parents tend to have poor mental health and emotionally withdraw from others due to a lack of encouragement to express and manage emotions.⁵

Possible effects of an authoritarian parenting style on children include:^5,6

• Increased unhappiness
• Low independence
• Insecurities and low self-esteem
• Emotional dysregulation
• Poor coping skills
• Depression
• Poor social skills
• Substance use
• Avoidant or disorganized attachment style
• Rebellious behavior and tendencies

Effects of Authoritative Parenting on Children

As noted, many consider authoritative parenting the optimal approach because parents create a warm and loving environment for their children. Children of authoritative parents tend to be more self-reliant and socially responsible because they have opportunities to explore autonomy and independence.⁶

Possible effects of an authoritative parenting style on children include:^5,6

• Better mental health
• High self-esteem
• High academic achievement
• Positive social skills
• Healthy approach to relationships
• Secure attachment with parents

Effects of Permissive Parenting on Children

Permissive parents are warm and loving toward their children and their needs, which is healthy and can foster strong attachments and bonding. However, permissive parenting puts little emphasis on discipline and correcting behaviors. Approaching child rearing with indulgent behaviors can have implications. For instance, children of permissive parents tend to experience lower self-esteem and independence.

Possible effects of an authoritative parenting style on children include:^3,7

• Self-centered or egocentric behaviors
• Emotional and behavioral problems
• Low levels of self-reliance
• Low self-esteem
• Dependence on parents
• Impulsivity
• Rebellious behavior

Effects of Uninvolved Parenting on Children

Uninvolved parenting is arguably the most detrimental parenting to children. Uninvolved parents are unavailable, unresponsive, and reject children’s needs. Negligent parenting philosophies do not encourage setting rules, parental involvement, or showing affection which can have serious implications.²

Possible effects of an uninvolved parenting style on children include:^2,3

• Poor mental health
• Low self-esteem
• Low self-confidence
• Seeking validation from others
• Emotional dysregulation
• Substance use

Other Parenting Styles

In addition to the four main parenting styles, parents can adopt several other unique approaches. Each combines various practices from the primary parenting styles to foster child development and growth. Again, there is no ‘right’ approach to parenting, so consider trying out a few techniques as you determine what is best for your family.

Below are some other parenting examples:

• Positive parenting: Positive parents promote good behaviors and choices using praise, encouragement, and rewards.
• Free-range parenting: Free-range parenting encourages independence and self-reliance, allowing children to explore and learn through experience with minimal supervision. While controversial, this approach can be beneficial when implemented correctly and safely.
• Attachment parenting: This parenting philosophy emphasizes the importance of the parent-child emotional bond. Attachment parents may use practices such as co-sleeping, babywearing, and responsive care.
• Gentle parenting: Gentle parenting, also known as soft parenting, prioritizes empathy, respect, and understanding in parent-child interactions. Parents provide guidance through supportive communication to address conflicts and challenges.

What Parenting Style Is Best for My Family?

Determining how to parent a child is a challenge for any family, and it takes time to find a parenting style that works well for their unique situation. Parents generally have a preferential style that traces back to their own experiences, observations, or information gathering. Parents often question and reflect on if their own style is optimal and struggle with determining the most effective way to discipline.⁸

Because children do not come with instructions, parenting is a difficult job. If you recognize certain parenting practices or techniques you would like to change or more fully develop, there are certain factors to consider beforehand. Ultimately, you and your family can decide which parenting style fits your needs.

Below are things to consider when choosing a parenting style for your family:

• Your child’s temperament: Recognize your child’s unique personality and adapt your approach to best suit their needs. Understanding your child is essential when determining which parenting style works.
• Cultural environment and expectations: Be mindful of cultural norms and values that may influence your parenting choices and the expectations placed on your child.
• Your own availability: Consider the time and resources you can dedicate to parenting and choose a style that aligns with your capacity to provide consistent care and support.
• Your past experiences: Reflect on your own upbringing and the parenting styles you experienced. Use this insight to inform your approach.
• Your child’s limitations and individual needs: Tailor your parenting style to accommodate any special needs, challenges, or strengths your child may have.
• The size of your family: If you have more than one child, adjust your parenting approach to manage family dynamics and the needs of multiple children.
• The roles of other family members: Consider the involvement and influence of other caregivers, such as grandparents or siblings, in your child’s upbringing. If these figures play a significant role in their development, fill these individuals in on your parenting choices and practices.
• Child care: Inform any caregivers of the practices you have chosen for your family. Can they carry through with this style? Will they support your efforts? These are important questions to ask.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you struggle with choosing a parenting style, talking and working with a therapist or counselor specializing in family therapy and relationships can provide insight and strategies. They can assist you in practicing and implementing new parenting strategies into your family life. There are also numerous online therapy options if you have a busy schedule or prefer at-home sessions.

Participating in a psychoeducational group on parenting skills may also be beneficial, and several programs adapt to different needs and developmental ages. Additionally, certified parent coaching provides family support and helps cultivate a stronger parent-child bond.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right parenting style depends on your availability, past experiences, and unique family needs. It’s important to remember that no single parenting style is perfect, and flexibility is key in adapting to the dynamics and challenges of your family. By understanding the different parenting styles, parents can make informed decisions that best support their children’s growth and well-being, fostering strong and nurturing relationships.