Effects of Authoritative Parenting on Child Behavior

Authoritative parenting is well-balanced.

Of the four types of parenting styles, authoritative parenting produces the most well-adjusted children. Authoritative parents are well-balanced in their approach; they are warm and loving with firm limits and rules in place for their children. Punishment in these homes is rare, as authoritative parents use natural consequences so their children are able to learn and grow from their mistakes. Children of authoritative parents are encouraged to be independent and meet their parents' high standards which results in a positive sense of self.

Relationships

Authoritative parents set high standards for their children.

Due to the authoritative parents' ability to explain the rules to their children and reason with them, these children become adults who have an easier time communicating their wants and needs to others and to give back to others. These children have experienced appropriate role models for healthy relationships, which they are able to take into adulthood. The stage for relationship success is set by authoritative parents. Children of authoritative parents are able to ask for things appropriately and respond in an age-appropriate manner to the response whether they get their way or not. Authoritative parents are emotionally present for their children, listen to their children even if they don't agree and set the tone and schedule of the household.

Communication Skills

Authoritative parents allow children to question.

Authoritative parents allow their children to express their emotions and creativity. Authoritative parents model appropriate emotional reactions, which produces children with impulse control, self-control and self regulation of emotions, meaning they are able to know what they are feeling yet control their behavior. Children raised by authoritative parents are allowed to question authority but are expected to be respectful in doing so. Their questions are answered and their curiosity is encouraged. Due to the ongoing dialogue in these homes, children often grow up to know how to think for themselves, communicate appropriately and make important decisions. These children often grow into successful adults with a solid sense of self-worth.

Emotional Regulation

Authoritative parents allow appropriate expression of emotions.

Authoritative parents encourage children to take on responsibility in the household. Children raised with this parenting style begin school with the ability to resolve age-appropriate conflicts with their peers, hang up their coats and complete basic self-care tasks. Authoritative parents teach their children problem-solving skills. They allow their children to express their emotions yet teach them that the emotion cannot be used to get their way or hurt someone else. Children of permissive parents are often allowed to express everything to others around them while the parents unknowingly think they are allowing freedom of expression. Authoritarian parents stifle their children's emotions and expect the children to "fall in line."

Respect and Acceptance

Authoritative parents encourage the growth and happiness of their children.

Children in authoritative homes develop respect and tolerance of others. They grow into adults who are able to work together successfully in teams and groups. This skill lends itself to an increased chance of success in college and the workforce. Authoritative parents establish flexible boundaries and limits that are individualized depending on the child's age, maturity and trustworthiness. As these children grow they develop the ability to know their strengths, weaknesses, and abilities. They can do more for themselves as they have been taught what is expected of them. Children in authoritative homes develop strong leadership skills. They have a say in what goes on in the household, but mom and dad always make the final decision.

References

• NYU Child Study Center; Parenting Styles/Children's Temperaments: The Match; Anita Gurian
• UMN.edu; Authoritative Parenting Involves Balance; Ronald L. Pitzer