Reflection on Parenting Styles

Reflection on Parenting Styles

The type of parent or adult a child becomes can possibly be determined by the environment in which they are raised. As well as the way fathers and mothers communicate, as well as children and their siblings, parenting styles can also be categorized based on how co-parenting affects family dynamics. Based on classic research, developmental psychology by Diana Baumrind, parenting styles can be categorized into four categories: authoritarian, indulgent, and neglectful (Feldman 2014).  As such, children respond differently to parenting methods in different ways, so each parenting method can be viewed in different ways.  

Having taken a parenting course before, I already had a basic understanding of parent-child relationships. As a result of this course, I have developed a better understanding of both my relationship with my mother and the different types of relations with other parents in other families. It is becoming harder and harder to be a single parent in today's society. However, despite the difficulties that single parenting brings, the parenting style used by the child helps them get the care they need. Children can be raised the best way possible by an authoritative parenting style; I experienced being raised by an authoritative parent. 

Although single parenting has been looked down on for many years, I believe it is among the best parenting styles due to its authoritative nature. From the class reading material, I learned that single parenting is when one parent, such as the mother or father, is forced to take on the role of two parents. A child, in the opinion of many people, needs two parents. However, according to me, this is not the case. My mother and I have lived together since I was born. This has brought us closer together and made our bond stronger. Despite being responsible for paying the bills and taking care of my brother, my mother still managed to provide me with everything I wanted and needed. With the relationship I have created with my mother, I have grown to be more confident and independent. It is argued that social and environmental influences from childhood shapes our behaviours and personality as we grow up into mature men and women (Feldman 2014). Similarly, my personality traits and behaviours have been influenced by the authoritative environment of the parenting style I grew up with. Her ability to maintain a healthy work-life balance while also caring for me has inspired me. I have been greatly helped by my realization that I am capable of supporting myself and not dependent on others for survival. 

Family members adopt a variety of parenting styles. However, while adopting these parenting styles, parents should consider that children develop a strong sense of attachment to a particular individual during their infancy, which is the most important form of social development (Feldman 2014). As such, children's social competence is shaped by their parents' parenting practices (Feldman 2014).  A lot of acceptance and a lot of control are characteristics of the authoritative parenting style which is the most accepted form of parenting style among parents. Authoritarian parents will reward their children's unquestioning obedience with rigid and punitive methods and practices (Feldman 2014). Since I was a child, and even today, my mother has always been very accepting toward me. She always stands by my decisions and supports me. Aside from that, I have never felt overborne by my mother; she encourages me to be independent while also keeping an eye on me. Although she is considerate, she can also discipline me if she feels it's necessary. I have always been aware of the rules and that they must be followed. Also, I have never been rebellious. In general, the authoritative parenting style helps to establish a trusting relationship between parents and their children as well as discipline. 

Conclusively, I have gained a deeper appreciation of my mother’s parenting style and single parent household by learning about the various parenting styles. Prior to this class, I assumed that parents raise their children in the same way their mothers raised me. In retrospect, I realize not every child is blessed with such a wonderful parent. As a result of her influence, I have learned that happiness is not dependent on others and that I should put my best foot forward. Therefore, children raised by single parents do not always have bad behavior; it depends on how they are raised. 

References

Feldman, R. S. (2014). Essentials of understanding psychology. McGraw-Hill Education.