Baumrind Parenting Style

Baumrind parenting style, also referred to as authoritative, is an attempt to balance demanding and responsive approaches. Most of Western society utilizes some form of this type of parenting.

Dr. Diane Baumrind is most famous for her observations of middle class America's parenting styles in the 1960's. Dividing these styles up into three categories, permissive, authoritarian, and authoritative, she determined that the most 'well-adapted' children were raised by authoritative parents.

Gentle discipline is employed to guide the child within a certain framework of expectations. The parent consistently explains the reasons behind these expectations and allows the child to object and/or question.

This method allows for individual expression while still ensuring that the child will be able to be a productive and active member of society.

Reasoning and intellect are highly valued in this method of parenting. Children are encouraged to think through their actions and only act with forethought and intention.

Parents increase a child's level of responsibility with age. Limitations and expectations are rational, reasonable, and well-communicated. Learn More About Dr. Baumrind's Work Here