By Vinod Ram 
Parenting isn’t a one-size-fits-all job, but over the years, psychologists and child development experts have identified different parenting styles that tend to shape a child’s growth and development in unique ways. The big question many parents ask is: Which parenting style is most encouraged—and why?
The Four Main Parenting Styles
To answer that, let’s start by breaking down the four primary parenting styles as identified by psychologist Diana Baumrind and later expanded by researchers:
- Authoritative – High responsiveness, high demands
- Authoritarian – Low responsiveness, high demands
- Permissive – High responsiveness, low demands
- Neglectful/Uninvolved – Low responsiveness, low demands
The Winner: Authoritative Parenting
Of all these, authoritative parenting is widely considered the most encouraged by psychologists, educators, and child development specialists. This style strikes a balance between firmness and warmth. Authoritative parents set clear expectations and boundaries, but they also provide support, listen actively, and encourage independence.
Why is it so effective?
- Children raised by authoritative parents tend to have higher self-esteem, better academic performance, and stronger social skills.
- This style promotes open communication, which helps kids feel safe expressing themselves and builds emotional intelligence.
- It also fosters responsibility and independence, preparing children for real-world challenges.
Why Not the Others?
Let’s briefly touch on why the other styles are generally less recommended:
- Authoritarian parenting may produce obedient children, but it often comes at the cost of low self-esteem and poor social skills.
- Permissive parenting creates a nurturing environment but often lacks the structure kids need to learn self-discipline.
- Neglectful parenting is the most harmful, as it leaves children without the guidance and emotional support they need to thrive.
Real Life Is a Mix
It’s worth noting that no parent is perfect, and most people shift between styles depending on the situation. The key is to aim for consistency and to focus on building a strong, respectful relationship with your child.
Final Thoughts
The most encouraged parenting style—authoritative parenting—is all about balance. It’s about guiding your child with structure while still honoring their individuality. If you’re striving to raise confident, empathetic, and resilient kids, this approach is a strong foundation to build on.
