Parenting

Now this lesson was interesting! I loved learning about parenting and the different styles that parents use within their own families.

Permissive:  This style of parenting is the laid-back "I'll let them do what they want and they can learn from their mistakes themselves" mentality. This is not a safe method to use. Although the children can learn from their own mistakes, there needs to be clear boundaries that restrict certain, dangerous behaviors.

Authoritarian: This style of parenting is a "dictator" type model, disciplines harshly for misdeeds, "It's my home so you will do as we say" type of mentality. This is not the kind of parenting style you want to use. Although parents are the authoritative figures in the home, there needs to be a balance between discipline and learning from their own mistakes through a loving environment.

Authoritative: This style of parenting is the ultimate goal we are reaching for as parents. It is used in a loving, warm environment and puts clear boundaries on acceptable behavior. You still allow the child to learn from their mistakes, but you are still there as a guide to help them along the way.

Many children who grow up in a permissive or authoritarian home tend to distrust the world, whereas those who grew up under an authoritative home are more likely to succeed in the world.

I remember growing up in an authoritative environment. My parents were very clear on certain rules and boundaries, but they still allowed me to do things that I learned my lesson from. They never let me do anything dangerous or too stupid, and they always disciplined out of love, never out of contempt for my actions.

If we understand the importance and differences of these parenting styles and strive to follow the authoritative model of parenting, then we will most likely raise children who will be successful in the world and who show the amount of respect that us parents deserve.