Styles

Authoritarian

• An authoritarian parent is characterised by demanding behaviour and inflexibility regardless of the consequences.

• There is little or no input from dependants in decision making and obedience is often expected.

• The carer has their own preconceived ideas about how they meet the needs of the dependant.

This form of parenting/caring will often result in resentment and disconnection from the dependant. This leads to a poor quality relationship between the two which may lead to emotional and social issues. The dependant is not encouraged to make their own decisions and therefore they are limited in their growth as an individual as they do not become independent.

Democratic

• In the democratic parenting/caring style there is a strong sense of involvement of the dependant.

• Their opinions and ideas are sought out to inform decisions made on their behalf.

This enhances the mood and relationship as the dependant feels included. A more positive and respectful relationship is likely to result through quality time spent together where ideas and thoughts are shared freely due to a strong level of trust that has been built up. This effective communication allows for a more positive relationship.

Permissive / Indulgent

• This parenting style is characterised by excessive leniency.

• Parents allow dependant to make many choices for themselves and are agreeable when asked for permission to attend an activity. This means that the dependant gets their way most of the time.

• Which limits the amount of conflict, however, the dependant lacks respect for the parent/carer as they do not set boundaries and this can also be construed as a lack or concern and care for the dependant.

• The dependant may engage in more high risk behaviours leading to more chance of injury or harm.

Negligent

A parent may be negligent in many different ways.

• • This could be physical, if they do not provide sufficient nutrition for the dependant. This may not only be enough food but the right type of food. Too much unhealthy food can also be seen as negligent. Clothing, hygiene and medical care can also come under physical negligence.

  • Emotional negligence relates to a lack of affection and warmth in the relationship between carer and dependant.

  • Some parents may be negligent in their supervision of their children, not watching them closely enough or leaving them alone when they are incapable of caring for themselves. This can result in injury or even death.