The Four Types of Parenting: What Style Are You?

Parenting is one of the most rewarding—and challenging—roles we take on. The way we parent is often shaped by how we were raised, our values, and even the stress we’re under. Psychologists have identified four primary parenting styles, and understanding your style can offer powerful insights into your relationship with your child.

1. Authoritative (Balanced)

• High warmth, high structure

• Parents set clear expectations but are nurturing and responsive.

• Children tend to be confident, responsible, and emotionally regulated.

Why it works: This style promotes independence while maintaining strong emotional connection and boundaries.

2. Authoritarian (Strict)

• Low warmth, high structure

• Parents are highly controlling, with little room for negotiation.

• Children may be obedient but can struggle with low self-esteem or resentment.

Impact: Often leads to compliance out of fear rather than understanding.

3. Permissive (Lenient)

• High warmth, low structure

• Parents are affectionate but may struggle to set limits or follow through.

• Children may have trouble with boundaries and self-regulation.

Effect: Kids feel loved, but may lack accountability and structure.

4. Neglectful (Uninvolved)

• Low warmth, low structure

• Parents are emotionally distant or overwhelmed, with minimal involvement.

• Children may struggle with trust, attachment, and emotional development.

Concern: This style can lead to feelings of abandonment and insecurity.

At OMG Counseling, We Help Parents Grow

No parent is perfect, and no style is fixed forever. Many parents shift between styles depending on their stress levels or life circumstances. Through parent coaching and therapy, we help you:

• Understand your parenting patterns

• Build better communication with your child

• Set healthy, loving boundaries

• Break intergenerational cycles

Parenting is hard, but you don’t have to do it alone.