All the different known types of parenting is simply a manifestation of the fact that it’s something inherently personal and unique to every family. There is no one-size-fits-all approach and no point in constraining parents to adhere to one certain way. Parenting is definitely not a single activity. It’s a complex process and behavioral patterns created to care for and raise children. Studies on parenting style take into account both parents and children’s temperaments, needs, and lifestyles, and the best each family can do is find the right fit. Check out the different types of parenting and discover a style (or two) best works for you!
Different Types Of Parenting Parents Should Know About
1. 4 Types of Parenting Styles By Diana Baumrind
Diana Baumrind is a clinical and developmental psychologist. She becomes popular because of her studies on parenting styles. These parenting styles include authoritarian parenting, authoritative parenting, permissive parenting, and uninvolved parenting.
Experts suggest authoritative parenting style is the most effective method. While the other three types have pros and cons but remember every child and parent is unique.
2. What Is Attachment Parenting? Pros, Cons, and Tips
Attachment parenting may be a newcomer in the field of parenting theory but it’s gained traction in recent years. It encourages a unique bond between parents and their children. Attachment parenting has its own potential benefits and disadvantages. These benefits and disadvantages are unique and you may not find in other types of parenting.
3. What Is Simplicity Parenting And How Do I Practice It?
Simplicity Parenting is an interesting type of parenting. Experts considered it timely in today’s modern world. Parenting in a digital and fast-paced environment is a complicated process. Parents must welcome new approach with valuable gems, helpful to the current situation.
4. Positive Parenting
Positive Parenting is a new phenomenon. It’s a simple guide helping children to stay on the right path. Bestowed in a positive way that teaches children to be reasonable and respectful. Research shows this is what helps children learn responsibility and consideration. This makes both kids and parents happier.
Positive Parenting borrows its main theories, values, and insights from the latest scientific branch of psychology, positive psychology. Positive psychology is a scientific study focusing on human meaningfulness, fulfillment, and happiness.
5. Unconditional Parenting
The American author and lecturer Alfie Kohn coined the term unconditional parenting. It stems from his 2005 book with the same title, Unconditional Parenting. According to him, “What our children most need from us as parents is unconditional love.”
Unconditional parenting is 100% acceptance regardless of your child’s behavior. You accept not only their achievements but who they are as a person
6. Spiritual Parenting
Spiritual parenting does not have any scientific roots nor does it follow specific religious norms. It is an innovative type of parenting offering parents an opportunity to nurture a dynamic faith in their child.
Practicing spiritual parenting is respecting your kid’s unique individuality. Providing him/her a space to grow his/her own beliefs based solely on his/her unique potentials.
7. Narcissistic Parenting
Experts consider narcissistic parenting as one of the most dangerous types of parenting. Research confirms narcissistic parents are incapable of loving others, even their own children.
Narcissistic parents are only driven by their own desires and needs. They see their children as possessions and opportunities to advance their self-interests. Experts also believe these parents thirst for acceptance and recognition. They often used their kids as the medium to live out their failed dreams and fantasies.
8. Helicopter Parenting
Parents who are always hovering above their children are showing signs of being helicopter parents. They’re found to be overprotective and constantly intervening in their children’s affairs.
Children with helicopter parents are often unfamiliar with the concept of basic risk and consequences of their actions. They also have poor decision-making skills and fear of taking chances.
9. Toxic Parenting
The term toxic parent is to describe parents whose own negative behavior causes emotional damage to their children.
Toxic parents are not limited to those who abuse their children verbally, physically, and even sexually. This term also covers the kind of parents who neglect the emotional needs of their children.
Unfortunately, children with toxic parents often blame themselves for their parent’s failures. Studies also show they have tendencies to grow into adults with poor self-image and a very low self-esteem.
Parenting has a significant impact on every child. It is the most consistent part of the environment every child has to deal with. We parents aspire to be the best that we can be. Parenting does not have any map or blueprint — don’t push yourself too much. If you make mistakes and get lost once in a while, it’s fine. As we all know, making mistakes and getting a little lost then finding your way, is all part of the journey.
Can you tell what type of parent you are? We’d love to hear from you, so share your thoughts in the comments section below!
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