Describe all the parenting styles and their effect on children.

According to psychologists there are only three types of parenting styles. These three styles have different variations but fall into on category specifically. Of these three there is one that is considered to be the "best" but depending on your children they may need a different approach. This article will explain the three types of parenting styles, so you can make an informed decision on what type of parent to be.

The first style of parenting is Authoritarian parents. This parenting style focuses on having a firm hand and control over your child. In some ways all parents have to show an authoritarian state at some point when imposing rules. The main aspect of being this type of parent is not that rules are imposed, however, but more that the rules imposed are expected to be followed. Authoritarian parents will harshly punish their children if rules are not followed. Although this style seems to be how parenting should work there is a danger of a child rebelling at some point making it difficult to impose any rules.

The next style of parenting is permissive. Permissive parents impose little or no rules on their children. When rules are broken there is little or no punishment following it. Permissive parents can actually have very successful children, however, if they need to alter a child's behavior it will be difficult or impossible to do so. After having a permissive style for many years you have essentially lost any control over your kids.

The third and best parenting style is authoritative parenting. This style is similar to being an Authoritarian, with few exceptions. While Authoritative parents impose rules and expect obedience they also explain their reasoning. By explaining their reasoning for rules children are more able to understand the rule, as well as the reason for following it. Imagine being an adult and doing something because a peer "said so". Although your children are not your peers it helps their understanding of you and why you expect obedience. It may be difficult to explain your rules but you owe it to your child to try in order to make them a more well rounded individual. This is highly regarded as the best type of parenting style because it allows you to impose rules, without being a dictator.