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Understanding Parenting Styles
Having children, as they say is the ultimate fulfillment that a woman can have. It enables them to feel complete and fulfilled with life, as they have been able to give life to another. Some women take this task head on without a worry in mind while others tend to be more cautious and would rather have all the tools they need for every step. Regardless of the kind of preparation a woman makes or takes, parenting styles vary from one parent to another.
To better understand this idea, you do not need to go far and wide to see that each parent raises his or her children in a unique manner. Some of these practices are common and agreeable while others are unconventional and would seem to be either harsh or irresponsible. Nonetheless, these work for them and their children in a special manner and would be rather difficult to contest.
One of the most common parenting styles requires the use of positive and negative reinforcements. This means that when your child exhibits good behavior, they are rewarded accordingly. Rewards come in the form of words of affirmation, praise or a treat such as something new or a day out. Negative reinforcements on the other hand pertain to reprimanding and punishments such as grounding as a consequence to bad behavior.
Some parents tend to be enablers to their children. This means that regardless of their child’s behavior, they provide their support and love to the child. While this has positive effects, it also comes with some negatives when done in excessive practices. There are cases when a child no longer recognizes fault, as they do not receive reprimands or the like for their mistakes. In a sense, making them feel that you approve everything they do may develop boundary issues as they age. The same issue applies to parents who tend to keep their children dependent on them. The best tip is to balance this style with a little discipline by knowing where to draw the line.
Another style that shares this principle would be the independent approach. Some parents would begin to let their children learn independence at an early age. One example is when a child gets bruised while playing, independent parenting would opt to ignore the fact that a child was hurt and is crying. Instead of running to their side and comforting them with a warm hug, they would tell the child to get up, brush it off and to be careful next time. While this may build character, too much independence would leave some sensitive children feeling like they are not given as much care as they should. In this case, diplomatic parenting would be the best solution. This is where a parent would patiently sit with their child and explain the difference of what is right and wrong. They enable their children to go for their goals and allow independence at the same time. However, they would set limitations and set ground rules that should be followed
There are various parenting styles that you would find in books or forums that teaches different practices. While you would be able to find countless options that you can try, at the end of the day you will choose the one that you feel most comfortable and justified. In essence, you would not necessarily need books to get this done or determine what type of parent you are. Most parents decide on this based on how they feel is best. Some repeat their parents’ practices while others do the exact opposite. People may not necessarily agree with you yet you will know in your heart that you are only doing what you feel and think would best mold your child.