Set Parenting Goals
Now that your own health and well-being are improved, you can begin focusing on what kind of parent you would like to be. Psychologists separate parenting styles into four groups based on levels of warmth and control. Here’s a breakdown of the four and pros and cons of each:
Authoritarian
The first is low-warmth and high-control. An authoritarian parent is the dictator of the home. There is rigid structure and the expectation of obedience. In this relationship, there would likely be more fear than respect with little love.
Permissive
This is the opposite of authoritarian as it emphasizes high-warmth and low-control. These parents allow their children to do whatever they please. They control the relationship since parents offer no guidance. This leads to blurred roles.
Uninvolved
These parents find the worst of both worlds with low-control and low-warmth. They are not interested in their children and are often absent or neglectful.
Authoritative
This style is the best of both worlds as parents provide control and warmth. These parents are described as being strict but loving, firm but fair and flexible. There is a balance between love and respect with the parent assuming the leadership role.
There is no right or wrong way to parent, but choosing to engage in a parenting style that differs from authoritative is associated with greater risks to you and your children.
