Did you know that there are 4 main types of parenting styles? Which one are you?
Parent 1 Are you the type of parent who determines the rules and boundaries for your child and expects him/her to follow them without question? Do you dictate what your child must do without involving your child in the decision-making process? Do you consistently assist your child with overcoming obstacles, solving problems and confronting challenges? Do you punish your child for not following the rules? If you answered ‘YES’ to three or more of these questions, read below to find out what type of parenting style you have. Parent 2 Are you the type of parent that makes rules and sets boundaries for your child but realises that there can be an exception to the rule? Do you consider your child’s feelings, or opinions when making rules? Do you talk to your child about the rules and discuss the reasons why they need to be enforced? Do you show your child that you value his/her input? Do you explain to your child that there are consequences to bad behaviour and that privileges will be denied, (or other sanctions imposed) rather than use punishment? If you answered ‘YES’ to three or more of these questions, read below to find out what type of parenting style you have.
Parent 3 Are you the type of parent that allows your child to do pretty much, what they like once they are quiet and seem happy? Do you set irregular rules and boundaries and step in only to defend your child (behaviour, morals and values) if there’s a problem. Do you make excuses to cover up your child’s negative behaviour if someone complains about him/her? Do you treat your child more like a friend? Are you under the assumption that “kids will be kids” and therefore negative behaviour is acceptable because they will grow out of it? If you answered ‘YES’ to three or more of these questions, read below to find out what type of parenting style you have.
Parent 4 Are you the type of parent who finds it hard to meet the basic needs of your child? Do you take little interest in your child’s education? Do you fail to make rules or boundaries for your child because maybe you lack the necessary parenting skills? Are you susceptible to substance abuse or alcohol? Do you have low or very little expectation from your child? If you answered ‘YES’ to three of more of these questions, read below to find out what type of parenting style you have.
Parent 1: You have an Authoritarian parenting style. Your child could develop self-esteem problems and lack efficient decision and problem-solving skills as a result.
Parent 2: You have an Authoritative parenting style. Your child should be happy and successful and cultivate good decision-making and evaluation skills. He/she should grow up to be a responsible adult.
Parent 3: You have a Permissive parenting style. Your child may struggle academically and most likely not appreciate authority and rules. This could lead to low self-esteem, aggression and sadness.
Parent 4: You have an Uninvolved Parenting style. Your child may lack self-confidence and the will to succeed academically. He/she may feel somewhat neglected and unhappy inside.
Whatever parenting style you have, it is never too late to work towards improvement: so try to find positive strategies that work for you and your child:
Parenting tip: To love a child is to bring out the best in him/her.
If you are concerned about the welfare of a child call the Childcare and Protection Hotline
on 227 0979 or write to us at childcaregy@gmail.com