Summary Of The Baumrind Dimensions Of Parenting » Parent Plaza

The responsibilities that go with parenting are many and some of the tasks are very intricate. The Baumrind dimensions of parenting explain that parenting involves different styles that must be integrated to help the child develop in all aspects. According to the Baumrind dimensions of parenting, there are at least three parenting styles that if taken individually, would tend to produce different results in the child.

The Baumrind dimensions of parenting identify the following three parenting styles: authoritarian parenting, authoritative parenting and uninvolved parenting. To get a better picture of the Baumrind dimensions of parenting, let us discuss the parenting styles one by one.

Authoritarian Parenting

The Baumrind dimensions of parenting state that authoritarian parenting is demands and direct and in many ways are not focused on the child's requirements. The main focus of the authoritarian parents is on obedience. The parents consider they have a higher status than their children; they tend to exercise authority over their children and expect them to follow without any questions. Since they are the decision-makers in the family, the parents expect their children to follow their direction without the need of any explanations. As a result, the children become blind followers who never think for themselves. Such an attitude of simply going with the flow can stunt the mental and emotional development of the child.

Authoritative Parenting

The authoritative parenting style differs from the authoritarian style in the sense that it also responds to the needs of the child. According to experts, this type of parenting style is more desirable. Under the Baumrind dimensions of parenting, this parenting style is defined as something that is more supportive rather than punitive. This style of parenting encourages the child to think for him or herself and be more independent.

Uninvolved Parenting

Uninvolved parenting is the least desired of styles, according to the Baumrind dimension of parenting. In uninvolved parenting style, the parents are neither demanding nor responsive. Such indifference on the part of the parents can be very detrimental to the development of the child.

Parenting is something that evolves naturally within a person's capabilities and therefore it is difficult to decide on a particular style and remaining true to that style. However, parents should read about all the different kinds of parenting and see which one reflects them the best? They should analyze whether what they are doing is hurting or helping their child and how they can improve. There is no right or wrong answer in parenting; it comes from your heart and not from textbooks.

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