Parenting Style the Impact of Term Paper

27). The authoritative style is one that encompasses both these important aspects. In terms of this theoretical stance as a parent I provide love and affection and at the same time set boundaries and limits to behavior. The child is aware of limitations that should not be transgresses but at the same time is also fully aware that they are cared for. In essence this mode of parenting is "...the best way to develop...self -confidence in the developing child" (Seddon, 2003, p. 27).

Central to this stance is communication. As has been noted, it is essentially a democratic style of parenting and the rules and limitations are explained to the child and not just imposed objectively, as would be the case in an authoritarian style of parenting. In the authoritative style there is a balance that is maintained between care and rules. Studies have shown that, "Children whose parents manage to strike the right balance in how they go about controlling and caring for them have been shown to benefit in many ways from their social skills to their achievement in school" ("Raising Kids the Right," 2006, p. 24) However, in the authoritarian mode there is a rigid structure which does not allow for any flexibility.It has also been found that "...being too rigid or having no boundaries in place can have a negative impact on your child. ("Raising Kids the Right," 2006, p. 24) the authoritarian approach is one in which there is little warmth, feeling or compassion and it is described as "uninvolved parenting..." (Cowan, Cowan, Ablow, Johnson & Measelle, 2005, p. 22). This is the opposite of the caring authoritative style. Only in extreme circumstances, where serious rules and limits haven been transgressed, would the authoritarian style be applied.

There are many other reasons that could be mentioned for the choice of the authoritative style. Chiefly this style focuses on an essential aspect that I found in my own upbringing; namely that, "...Children need both warmth and loving affection but they also need structure... (Seddon, 2003, p. 94) Another reason for choosing this style is that it has been found to best style in terms of the transmission of parental values and ideals to the child. (Pinquart & Silbereisen, 2004)

The following is a brief example of the way that I envision this style to function in my own family. If a child breaks the rules then the situation will be discussed.....