Parenthood andparental education are essential aspects to take into account to lead a fulfilling family life. Indeed, depending on how a parent raises their children, there is a greater or lesser chance that they will succeed in life. It is essential to understand the different parenting styles in order to know the consequences they can have on a person during their life.
What is parenting style?
THE parenting style is the model of education and relationship that parents adopt with their children. This style is based on moral principles, the values and beliefs specific to each family. Parenting style determines authority level parents on their children and their interpersonal relationships. Different styles may be adopted depending on social, religious and cultural contexts, as well as the specific needs and characteristics of children.
What are the main parenting styles?
There are several styles of parenting that can be classified into three broad categories:
- authoritarian parenting,
- authoritarian-negative parenting
- positive parenting.
Each of these styles has its pros and cons. Let’s discover together these different parenting styles:
- authoritarian parenting : This style is based on the idea that children should obey the orders and rules of adults without ever asking questions. Parents rely on discipline and punishment to maintain obedience and order in their children, which can lead to anxiety and lack of confidence in children as adults.
- Authoritarian-negative parenting : it incorporates elements of the other styles such as authority and discipline, but also certain negative characteristics such as excessive criticism, humiliation and verbal abuse. This form of parenting can cause anxiety disorders and feelings of anger in children.
- positive parenting : it focuses on constructive communication and positive reinforcement. Parents place more emphasis on accountability and encouragement than on discipline and punishment. This allows children to grow up with good self-esteem and a positive self-image.
What is the best parenting style?
While there is no "perfect" or "best" parenting style, you can however note that positive parenting is often preferable as it provides greater long-term benefits to children. A positive parenting allows children to grow up to be more independent, more confident and happier. It also encourages growth and social and emotional development children. Additionally, positive parenting provides a solid foundation for children to learn to manage their emotions and cope with life's challenges.
Impact on children
Depending on the choice made by the parents, the lives of the children will be impacted. It is always preferable that both parents make an identical choice. Otherwise, this can have serious repercussions on the child's behavior.
| authoritarian parenting | This educational style has significant consequences on the development of children. First, it generally causes anxiety problems that persist into adulthood. Strict obedience demanded without explanation frequently leads to a lack of self-confidence. Indeed, the emphasis placed on discipline and punishment can hinder the development of autonomy in children. The absence of dialogue and questioning can limit the child's ability to develop critical thinking. Finally, this style can create emotional distance between parents and children, potentially affecting their future relationships. |
| Authoritarian-negative parenting | This style has particularly harmful impacts on children. First, it usually causes anxiety disorders, creating a state of constant stress in the child. Then, it usually generates angry feelings that can persist for a long time and affect the child's future relationships. Excessive criticism severely erodes self-esteem, making the child vulnerable to depression. Repeated humiliation leaves deep emotional scars, which can lead to attachment issues. Finally, constant verbal abuse creates a toxic environment that can impact all aspects of a child's development, including their school performance and social skills. |
| positive parenting | This style often has beneficial effects on children's development. First of all, it promotes good self-esteem, allowing the child to feel valued and capable. Constructive communication encourages the development of a child's linguistic and social skills. Positive reinforcement stimulates intrinsic motivation, helping the child develop a positive attitude towards learning. Responsibility contributes to the child's autonomy and self-confidence. Finally, the emphasis on encouragement rather than punishment creates a safe emotional environment, favoring healthy and balanced development. |
How do you practice positive parenting?
There are several ways to implement positive parenting. First of all, parents should strive to establish a climate of mutual respect. They should communicate clearly with their children and listen to them attentively. Additionally, parents should show their children how face difficult situations. Finally, it is necessary for parents to recognize and congratulate their children's efforts and achievements.
In summary, each parenting style has its advantages and disadvantages. However, positive parenting is generally preferable because it provides greater long-term benefits to children. When implementing positive parenting, parents strive toestablish a climate of mutual respect, to communicate clearly with their children and to listen attentively in order to teach them to face difficult situations and to recognize their efforts and achievements.
