To start things off, enjoy a short drama as the Retrobots help get the studio ready for the roundtable. Guests don’t show up, messages from a fan mean a secret is revealed about Retrobot David. It’s time to get started, so we get right to it.

John Wilkerson of the Wired Homeschool is on hand to discuss some ideas related to parenting style.

Main Topic

Parenting Styles

There are four styles, based on 2 points.

Authoritarian.

Characterized by being: High on control, low on warmth.

• High expectations,
• structured environment, and clearly stated rules.
• Unquestioned obedience.
• Little negotiation between parent and child.
• Children may benefit from boundaries, but it lacks a loving environment.
• Demands are not balanced by responsiveness.

Permissive.

Characterized by: Low on Control. High on Responsiveness.

• Avoids confrontation. ,
• Low on setting limits, or asserting authority.
• Children regulate their own behavior.
• Accepting, affirmative, and tolerant of children’s impulses.
• Desire for child’s self expression, not conforming to society expectations.
• See themselves more as a friend than parent.

Uninvolved.

Characterized by: Low on control. Low on Responsiveness.

• Worst case, they are neglectful.
• More commonly, they provide for basic need, but focus is on self interest. Career, drugs, etc.
• Few expectations.
• Unlikely to be involved in child life, events, etc.
• Little or no supervision.
• Unable, or unwilling to provide support, or don’t recognize they’re not.
• Find it easier to take a hands off approach.

Authoritative.

Characterized by: High on Control. High on Responsiveness.

• accept responsibility to be responsive to child need.
• Willing to discuss options, and negotiate rules or standards.
• Nurturing or supportive, rather than imposing punishment.
• Assertive, but not intrusive or restrictive.
• Want children to be come assertive, self disciplined, responsible.
• They listen to children.
• Encourage independence.
• Place limits, consequences on child behavior.
• Express warmth and nuture.
• Allow children self expression.
• Encourage child to discuss options.
• Fair and consistent discipline.

Authoritative is found to be associated with positive outcomes In social, psychological, and school success.

It focuses on child’s best interest, even if it means sacrificing self interest.

It insists on the child taking some responsibility, with responsibility increasing as they grow.