Did You Know Your Parenting Style Can Directly Impact Your Child’s Development?

Parenting is guided by two main variables: control (the rules and limits we set) and support (the affection, communication, and connection we offer). The balance—or imbalance—between these two creates different parenting styles, each with unique effects on how children see themselves and interact with the world.

Let’s look at the 4 main parenting styles and their possible impacts on children:

👩‍👩‍👦 Authoritarian Style

Parents are inflexible, demand strict obedience, and punish non-compliance. They set limits but do not consider the child’s opinions or needs.

Impact on the child:

• May lead to insecurity, low self-esteem, and social difficulties.

• Children tend to be very obedient when parents are present, but more irresponsible and aggressive in their absence.

🤷‍♀️ Permissive Style

Parents are affectionate and responsive but establish few or no rules. They are tolerant and avoid conflicts.

Impact on the child:

• May cause behavioral problems and a lack of self-control.

• Children are often lively and expressive, but more immature, with difficulties in self-regulation and finishing tasks or projects.

🙈 Neglectful Style

Parents are neither demanding nor responsive, showing indifference to their children’s needs.

Impact on the child:

• Hinders cognitive and social development and may foster insecurity.

• These children often struggle to follow rules since none were enforced at home.

• They tend to be vulnerable, with low self-esteem and limited social skills.

🌈 Democratic Style

There is a balance between clear expectations and support. Parents set firm limits but encourage open communication, independence, and decision-making.

Impact on the child:

• Promotes independence, self-esteem, emotional security, and positive social skills.

• Children tend to show higher self-esteem, better social abilities, and stronger self-control.

✨ Let’s remember: there are no perfect parents, but there are conscious parents. Every day is an opportunity to reflect, adjust, and accompany our children with respect and love.

👉 Now that you know the parenting styles and their impacts… the question is: Which one do you practice in your family?