Linton Smith

The four parenting styles, identified by Diana Baumrind, a clinical psychologist, are:

1. Authoritarian

Strict, demanding, and punitive, with little warmth or nurturing. Parents make decisions without explanation, expecting obedience.

Children may become:

• Obedient, but also aggressive, rebellious, or fearful.
• Less independent, self-confident, and socially competent.
• More prone to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.

2. Authoritative

Balanced, warm, and communicative, with clear expectations and consequences. Parents encourage independence and self-regulation.

Children tend to become:

• Confident, independent, and self-regulated.
• Socially competent, with good communication skills.
• Emotionally intelligent, with better emotional regulation.
• More likely to achieve academic success and have positive relationships.

3. Permissive
Lenient, warm, and nurturing, with few boundaries or expectations. Parents tend to avoid conflict and discipline.

Children may become:

• Impulsive, aggressive, and demanding.
• Less self-regulated, with difficulty controlling emotions.
• More prone to behavioral problems, substance abuse, and poor academic performance.
• Overly dependent on others for decision-making and problem-solving.

4. Neglectful

Uninvolved, distant, and unresponsive, with little warmth or nurturing. Parents often prioritize their own needs over their child’s.

Children may become:

• Emotionally withdrawn, with difficulty forming attachments.
• More prone to behavioral problems, substance abuse, and poor academic performance.
• Less self-confident, with lower self-esteem.
• More vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.

Keep in mind that these outcomes are not absolute and can vary depending on individual circumstances, cultural context, and other factors. A balanced approach, combining warmth, structure, and guidance, is often considered the most effective parenting style.