Question

Seven-year-old Mary has a piece of candy that she obviously stole from KMart. How would her mother respond if her parenting style was (a) authoritative (b) authoritarian (c) permissive and (d) uninvolved? What would you expect Mary to be like when he becomes 14 based on her mother's parenting style?

Answer 1

• As an authoritative mother,I would be strict and mary that she did wrong and disobeyed the rules set by me but at the same time as mother I would be responsive and try to understand her point of view as well,that why she did it. I would not impose by opinions on her but definitely be strict with her about not living up to my expectations of being an obedient child and explain the reason behind and at the same time allow her to explain herself as well.She will become self confident,and mature,social skills would develop,emotional control and just be a happy child
• As an authoritarian parent,I would be really strict and scold her about not following rules and breaking standards of obedience set by me.I would just express my discontent and not allow her to provide her own explanation.I would punish her for making this mistake.She would follow rules but may lack self discipline,less independence will lead to inability in setting her own standards,socially she can become inadept and might become more aggressive.
• As a permissive parent,I would understand that she is little and can make mistakes.I dont expect mature behaviour from her at such an age.I would talk to her as a friend and be easy with her by understanding that kids will be kids.She might show low achievement in academics,make poor decisions,display more aggressions,less emotional understanding,may become prone to substance abuse.
• As a neglectful mother,I would be not really concerned why she did.I would have an indifferent attitude and might not even talk because of my own busy life.I dont have any expectations from her.When mary grows up,she would develop deficits in emotional and social skills,perform poorly academically,lack of attachment in relationships.