The Most Popular Parenting Styles Seen in 2023 and What That Means for Children

Parenting is a complex and ever-evolving journey. The term "parenting style" is exactly what it sounds like- the way, or "style" in which you parent your child. There's no defined "right" or "wrong" way to parent, and many people don't spend much time actually planning out their parenting methods. That can seem strange since parents will spend at least 18 years of their lives basically revolving around their children, but for a lot of parents, they simply adopt and modify techniques their own parents used on them. Some of those learned parenting habits can be good. Some may be bad, but however you raise your children will impact them deeply. Parenting styles play a crucial role in shaping a child's development, behavior, and overall well-being. As societal norms and cultural values evolve, parenting approaches also undergo changes. In 2023, certain parenting styles have gained popularity, each with its unique characteristics and impacts on children. In this article, we will explore the most prominent parenting styles of 2023, backed by insights from scholarly articles that shed light on their effects on children.

1. Authoritative Parenting

Authoritative parenting is characterized by parents who set clear expectations, enforce rules, and communicate openly with their children. They are nurturing and responsive, while also encouraging independence and autonomy. This parenting style emphasizes warmth, guidance, and consistent discipline. Out of all parenting styles, this one is the most intentional. It's a fine line that requires balancing between being being an authority figure and a nurturer. Parents who naturally adopt this role of parenting likely came from a very stable household growing up and have a strong relationship with their parenting partner. Others might have specifically chose this style of parenting and worked hard to achieve this fine balance after being raised in a more chaotic setting.

Scholarly Articles:

Title: "Parenting Styles and Child Development: A Meta-Analytic Review" Authors: Darling, Nancy; Steinberg, Laurence Published in: Psychological Bulletin

Steinberg, L. (2001). We know some things: Parent-adolescent relationships in retrospect and prospect. Journal of Research on Adolescence, 11(1), 1-19.

2. Permissive Parenting

Permissive parenting is characterized by a lack of structure and discipline, with parents being highly indulgent and lenient. Parents who adopt this style are highly responsive and nurturing but tend to have low demands and few rules. They may prioritize their child's happiness over discipline, often avoiding confrontation and setting limits. These parents often either came from homes that were not very nurturing or were overly strict and structured. Their focus is making their children feel loved because that is what they think is a parent's most important role. This might be the most popular role parents have taken on in 2023 as we see more and more parents that want their children to feel like they have a friend in their parent.

Scholarly Articles:

Title: "Permissive Parenting, Deviant Peer Associations, and Delinquent Behavior in Adolescence" Authors: Steinberg, Laurence; Lamborn, Susie Dornbusch, Sanford M.; Darling, Nancy; Mounts, Nina S. Published in: Developmental Psychology

Darling, N., & Steinberg, L. (1993). Parenting style as context: An integrative model. Psychological Bulletin, 113(3), 487-496.

3. Authoritarian Parenting

Authoritarian parenting is characterized by strict rules, high expectations, and an emphasis on obedience. Parents adopting this style tend to be highly demanding and controlling while offering limited warmth and nurturing. They prioritize obedience and conformity over warmth and open communication. These types of parents were often raised in a similar way, adopting the techniques their own parents used on them.

Scholarly Articles:

Title: "Parenting Styles and Adolescents' Achievement Strategies" Authors: Mau, Wei-Chen; McBride-Chang, Catherine Published in: Journal of Family Issues

Baumrind, D. (2013). Authoritarian parenting revisited: Historical and contemporary perspectives. Parenting: Science and Practice, 13(4), 1-19.

4. Uninvolved Parenting

Uninvolved parenting, also known as neglectful parenting, is marked by a lack of responsiveness, support, and involvement in a child's life. Parents adopting this style may be emotionally distant, preoccupied with personal challenges, or simply disengaged from their child's needs. This style can have detrimental effects on a child's well-being and development. It's not often intentional that parents adopt this style, but many things in life like a busy work schedule, previous unhealed trauma, or even just being overwhelmed by the stress of adulthood can cause parents to lack when it comes to nurturing their children.

Scholarly Articles:

Title: "Neglected Children, Shame, and Social Withdrawal: Parenting Styles and Children's Shame Proneness" Authors: Trifonova, Nataliya; See, Ya Hui Michelle Published in: Child & Family Social Work

Pomerantz, E. M., & Eaton, M. M. (2001). Maternal intrusive support in the academic context: Transactional socialization processes. Developmental Psychology, 37(2), 174-186.

Impact on Children

1. Authoritative parenting has been consistently associated with positive outcomes in children, including higher self-esteem, better social skills, and academic success. It fosters emotional well-being, self-discipline, and resilience. While there's not an official "best way to parent" and every child and household is different, statistically this is what's best for children and helps them be the most well rounded.

2. Permissive parenting can lead to difficulties in self-regulation, lower academic achievement, and an increased likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors. However, it can also contribute to open communication and a strong parent-child bond. So while you may not raise a very motivated or disciplined child, they're likely to have good relationships and feel comfortable at home.

3. Authoritarian parenting has been linked to lower self-esteem, decreased social competence, and higher levels of anxiety and depression in children. It may hinder a child's autonomy and decision-making skills. This parenting style is common because it is most often adopted from what the adult experienced themselves as a child. It can be hard to relearn what you've been taught since childhood, but this specific parenting style seems to be stressful for everyone involved.

4. Uninvolved parenting often results in poor emotional development, impaired social skills, and a higher risk of engaging in delinquent behavior. These children may struggle with self-esteem, trust, and forming secure relationships. When children don't feel cared for then a lot of problems can arise for them both as children and later on as adults.

Remember, parenting is a dynamic process, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. It is essential to consider the individual needs and temperament of your child, as well as the cultural context in which you are raising them. Parenting styles significantly impact a child's development, shaping their behaviors, emotions, and overall well-being. While there are various parenting styles prevalent in 2023, it is crucial to understand their potential effects on children. Authoritative parenting tends to yield the most positive outcomes, fostering a balance of support, discipline, and autonomy. However, permissive, authoritarian, and uninvolved parenting styles can have BOTH positive AND negative consequences for children. Ultimately, it's most important to find a balanced approach that meets the child's individual needs. No one specific parenting technique will work for every child, but it's just important to be mindful of the types of reoccurring interactions you have with your children. Being informed and intentional about parenting styles empowers parents to make strong decisions that promote their child's healthy development and happiness.