Wondering about the type of parent you are? Here is a list of common parenting styles.
Traditional Parent: Parents who teach their kids that ‘Family is everything’ Family is the biggest support system in times of crisis. They ask their children to concentrate on academics for a bright future. They are conservative and traditional in approach and not comfortable discussing controversial topics. These parents inculcate strict discipline & a stringent set of dos & don’ts.
Over-protective Parent: A child growing up under parents whose lives revolve around him/her. If the child is not allowed to face life in all its shades, they will grow up to be excessively dependent, weak with poor problem resolution skills and will rely on others’ help for trivial matters. Give your children the freedom to explore the world without constantly interfering in their lives.
Pushy parents: These want to live their own unrequited dreams through their children. They want their kids to be winners all the time and this puts kids under tremendous strain leading to nervous breakdowns or even suicidal tendencies. Such parents find it hard to accept their child’s failure. Rather than being pushy, share positive thoughts & feelings with them.
Comparing Parent: Such parents are always comparing their children and their activities with that of others. Such children grow up to be adults who harbour excessive feelings of worthlessness, low self-esteem and self-pity. Empathise with your kids and even when you disagree with your child, use positivity. Avoid comparing siblings and using hurtful phrases.
Authoritarian Parenting: Is where parents establish the rules and expect that children will follow them without exception. Children have little to no involvement in problem-solving challenges or obstacles. Instead, parents expect that children will follow all of the rules all the time.
Authoritative Parenting: Authoritative parents also have rules that children are expected to follow, however, they allow some exceptions to the rule. They often tell children the reasons for the rules and they are more willing to consider a child’s feelings when setting limits.
Authoritative parents tend to use consequences instead of punishments. They also use more positive consequences to reinforce good behaviors and may be more willing than authoritarian parents to use reward systems and praise.
Children raised with authoritative discipline tend to be happy and successful. They are often good at making decisions and evaluating safety risks on their own. They often grow up to be responsible adults who feel comfortable expressing their opinions.
Children just need your love, support, care & presence. Be the best one, not necessarily the perfect one!
If you are a new parent looking for help, visit resources.
