Parenting is a technical job as the way you deal with your kids have a direct impact on their physical, mental and emotional health. Scientific literature also supports the notion that the parenting styles you adopt make or break a child. This is why child experts give a huge emphasis on adopting the right parenting style that is neither too rigid nor too flexible. Let us help you in decoding your parenting style just to make sure you are utilizing your energies in the right direction.

Authoritative

Authoritative parenting styles is a combination of authority and involvement. Parents following this style adopt a friendly approach while interacting with kids, but they also control them in many different ways. In addition, they have high expectations from their kids. This creates a healthy relationship as kids feel comfortable sharing their problems and feelings with their parents. On the other hand, they are also expected to follow certain rules. Answer these questions to know if you are an authoritative parent or not.

• Have you set certain household rules like limited internet usage time, fixed bedtime, etc.?
• Are there any consequences of breaking these rules?
• Do your kids share their problems and innermost feelings with you openly?
• Do you expect your kids to behave in a certain manner?

Permissive

Permissive parenting styles involve a lot of care, love, support, and leniency. It does come off as something extremely good for kids, but it has its fair share of consequences. These parents do not want to upset their kids by setting strict rules or pressurizing them to do anything. Instead, they believe on adopting a lenient approach that has its own benefits, but its drawbacks outweigh its benefits. Kids of permissive parents lack major life traits like self-discipline and self-control. If you can relate to any of the statements given below, then you are probably a permissive parent.

• Do you have to offer rewards for convincing kids to do anything?
• Do you avoid setting rules for your kids or compromise on them just for your kids’ happiness and convenience?
• Do you like the idea of becoming kids’ close friend instead of their parent?
• Do you intentionally avoid starting an argument with your kids?

Neglectful

Neglectful parenting style, often referred to as uninvolved parenting, is by far the least favorable way of parenting kids as it does not take into account the love and support kids need and expect from their parents. Uninvolved parents rarely show interest in their kids’ lives. All they do is fulfill their kids’ basic needs like food, shelter, etc. Parents adopting this style need immediate help as it can be unsafe for the kids in the long run. Check whether you qualify as a neglectful parent or not by answering the following questions.

• Do you spend enough time with your kids?
• Do you stay in touch with your kids’ friends and teachers?
• Do you fulfill emotional and psychological needs of your kid?
• Do you stay involved in your kid’s life?

Authoritarian

Authoritarian is a rather strict mode of parenting in which parents leave little space for communication, but they set strict rules for their kids. These parents rarely show love and affection, but they have high expectations of their kids. Furthermore, they mostly rely on punishment to make sure their kids obey them. Kids of authoritarian parents lack decision-making skills and have a lower self-esteem. In addition, they feel shy, especially in public settings. Answer the following questions to check if you’re an authoritarian parent.

• Are you rigid when it comes to setting rules?
• Do you set strict rules for your kids and punish them if they do not follow these rules?
• Are you reserved when it comes to showing love and affection towards your kids?
• Do you use punishment as a tool to make sure your kids do whatever you ask them to do?

Each parenting style has its own benefits and drawbacks. You need to figure out what works best for you and your kids. You can of course borrow a few traits from each style if you like. Just remember to prioritize you kids’ well-being rather than your own convenience.