What is permissive parenting

This type of parenting can be thought of as a balance between the two more extreme styles of parenting. Leading psychologist Dr. Authoritative parents set rules and expectations for their children but also respond more thoughtfully and lovingly to them. They practice discipline but also provide feedback.

They listen more and discuss consequences and expected behavior. Authoritative parents provide healthy guidelines that let children experience the world in a safe and loving way. Many studies have found that permissive parenting is actually linked to problems in children, like poor academic performance and behavioral problems.

In contrast, children who have more authoritative parenting styles display less signs of internalizing behavior. Permissive parenting has also been linked to more risky behaviors in older children, like heavy drinking in adolescents and alcohol-related problems as young adults. Children with permissive parents also report less intimacy with their parents. The authoritative parenting style has been linked to some positive aspects in young children and adolescents.

An older study from shows it helps with psychosocial maturity, cooperation with peers and adults, responsible independence, and academic success. Children also report having more intimate relationships with their parents when an authoritative parenting style is used. However, there are different levels of permissive parenting styles. For instance, a parent may be permissive on some things — like how much television their child watches in the summer — and more firm on other aspects. Race, income, and education all play a role in the different types of parenting styles as well.

In recent years, this parenting style has seen a resurgence in popularity thanks to "free-range" parenting, a philosophy that closely mirrors permissive parenting. Tenets of free-range parenting include natural consequences, learned independence and resourcefulness. And though not identical, these similar styles of parenting, when implemented thoughtfully and on the right type of child, can have positive outcomes. While it may not be the most popular parenting style out there, some pros of permissive parenting do exist.

Nalin highlights a few below:. Despite this, there are some downsides to be aware of before you try to get all buddy-buddy with your kiddo.

While that may seem counterintuitive don't kids want to be able to do whatever they please? As a result, they will often test the waters to gauge how their parents will react, sometimes seeking attention from them," says Nalin.

This attention-seeking behavior can be the catalyst for several other negative consequences of permissive parenting, especially at its extremes.

Nalin shares these cons of permissive parenting:. Based on what we've outlined above about permissive parenting, here are a few scenarios that demonstrate how permissive parents might handle everyday situations.

By Christin Perry December 06, Save Pin FB More. When children are encouraged to express themselves freely, they will become more confident and willing to try new things, regardless of the consequences. Unconditional love is the key to raising a child who values him or herself.

Permissive parenting allows children to have more freedom, thus inspiring them to undertake new adventures with a greater sense of confidence. The four Baumrind parenting styles have distinct names and characteristics:. These Baumrind parenting styles are United States-centric and it is not clear how well these styles describe parents cross-culturally.

Each parenting style varies in at least four areas: discipline style , communication, nurturance , and expectations. Are you wondering how to figure out your style? Permissive or Indulgent parents mostly let their children do what they want, and offer limited guidance or direction.

They are more like friends than parents. Uninvolved parents give children a lot of freedom and generally stay out of their way. Some parents may make a conscious decision to parent in this way, while others are less interested in parenting or unsure of what to do. What is authoritative parenting? Authoritative parents are reasonable and nurturing, and set high, clear expectations.

Children with parents who demonstrate this style tend to be self-disciplined and think for themselves. This style is thought to be most beneficial to children. Few of us fit neatly into one single parenting style, but rather raise children using a combination of styles. Think of the four styles as a continuum instead of four distinct ways to parent. Ideally, we think about our children and what they need from us at specific points in time.

Or you might know an authoritarian parent who is nurturing, contrary to the description above. And of course, there are more influences on who children become than just parenting style.

Today, new names for parenting styles are arising. Reflecting on where you fit on the spectrum of parenting styles can be helpful. Taking that one step further: know that any of us with any style at any point in time could benefit from the self-reflection that typically comes from participating in a parenting class.

Talking with other parents and a facilitator can be helpful and reassuring. So how can you ensure your parenting style is helping your child to thrive? Written by: Bright Horizons Education Team. Get our weekly newsletter for all things early child development—from the benefits of pretend play to at-home STEM activities, and teaching kindness—along with encouragement for every stage of your parenting journey.

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