Parenting Styles

What is socialization?

the process by which parents and others teach children how to interact and behavior in appropriate ways according to the rules and norms of their society

What is internalization?

the process by which individuals adopt the attitudes, beliefs, and values held by their society

Define the four main parenting styles in respect to control and acceptance.

o   Authoritarian

o   Permissive

o   Authoritative

o   Uninvolved

1. Authoritarian:

   • High control, low acceptance

   • Strict rules, little warmth, expects obedience without discussion.

2. Permissive:

   • Low control, high acceptance

   • Warm and loving but lacks rules or discipline.

3. Authoritative:

   • High control, high acceptance

   • Sets clear rules with warmth and open communication—considered the most effective style.

4. Uninvolved:

   • Low control, low acceptance

   • Emotionally detached and provides little guidance or attention.

How does each parenting style affect children’s autonomy?

• Authoritative:

  • Supports autonomy by encouraging independence within clear boundaries.

  • Leads to confident, self-regulated children.

• Authoritarian:

  • Limits autonomy with strict control and little room for choice.

  • May result in obedient but less confident or socially adept children.

• Permissive:

  • Allows too much autonomy without guidance.

  • Can lead to impulsive or immature behavior due to lack of structure.

• Uninvolved:

  • Neglects autonomy and support.

  • Often results in children feeling insecure and struggling with independence.

Think through how culture can affect parenting practices

• Cultural values shape what behaviors are encouraged (e.g., independence vs. obedience).

• In individualistic cultures, parenting may emphasize autonomy, self-expression, and personal achievement.

• In collectivist cultures (e.g., many Asian, African, or Latin American societies), parenting may emphasize respect, obedience, and family harmony.

• Cultural norms influence parenting goals, discipline methods, and how parent-child relationships are expressed.

• What’s considered “authoritative” or “supportive” may vary across cultures.