Baumrind's Parenting Styles Theory

Baumrind's Parenting Styles Theory identifies four main approaches parents use to raise children: authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, and neglectful. Authoritative parents are responsive and set clear, fair rules; they encourage independence while maintaining boundaries. Authoritarian parents are strict, demand obedience, and value discipline over explanation. Permissive parents are warm and lenient, offering few rules or boundaries. Neglectful parents are uninvolved, providing little guidance or support. These styles influence a child's development, affecting their social skills, self-esteem, and ability to handle responsibilities. The authoritative style is generally associated with the most positive outcomes.