Parenting. Honestly, does anybody really know how to do it?

One thing my parents told me when I got old enough is that as much as it seemed like they knew what they were doing while raising me, they were winging every single second of it. I can’t express how much comfort that brought to me knowing that there isn’t a specific set of strict rules to run by in order to raise the “perfect” human.

However, different people have different parenting styles, and there’s no doubt that these styles have effects on the people their children turn out to be.

Over the next few weeks, Best Brains of Algonquin will be going over the 4 major parenting styles along with each of their pros and cons so that you can decide which types of styles you would like to incorporate in your parenting! First up: Authoritarian.

The basic premise of authoritarian parenting is as follows: strict rules with little to no exceptions, minimal explanation behind rules, punishments over discipline, out of tune with children’s emotions, and little warmth.

The main thing about authoritarian parenting is that it feeds into more authoritarian parenting. Adults who were raised under this parenting style often utilize the same style with their own children. Authoritarian parents define themselves as authoritative figures and not friends, so there is little to no emotional connection between child and parent. Those who notice they lack empathy are more inclined to utilize this parenting style.

This parenting can have a strong effect on children in both positive and negative ways. On one hand, authoritarian parenting can cause children to develop low self-esteem and a fear of saying/doing the wrong thing. On the other hand, this parenting style can also result in independent, well-behaved, and academically successful individuals. So how do you know which result you’re going to get? The truth is that there is really no way of telling what the future holds, but studies do show that a balance of having one strict authoritarian parent and another nurturing and approachable parent creates a good environment to raise children.

In conclusion, authoritarian parenting has its time and place. However, it lacks the unconditional love and support that children need to develop their emotional intelligence. It’s always important to have rules and boundaries, but too much can cause children to feel uncomfortable and misunderstood by their parents.

Tune in next time to learn about the next parenting style, permissive parenting!