Different Types of Parents It is universally true that all parents in the world love their children. However, as parents’ views of life vary, they love their children in different ways. Generally speaking, in terms of how they treat their children, parents fall into three basic types: autocratic, democratic, and permissive.
The autocratic parent’s word is the law. He always sets rules, expecting complete obedience from his children. He assumes that he knows what is best for his children and that they will learn discipline and respect for authority from his orders. He does not realize that he may not know best and that rules without mercy may breed contempt for authority. If the child came home late from a party because a major accident on the highway tied up traffic for miles, this parent would not allow the child to explain his reasons for being late. The child would be immediately punished. This kind of parent probably has good intentions, wanting his child to grow up “right,” but his approach to the task may lead to conflicts. The democratic parent is not so strict. He is willing to discuss rules with his children and listen to their side of an argument. If his child came home an hour late from a party, he would listen to the explanation instead of punishing the child immediately. In general, the democratic parent lays down fewer rules than his autocratic counterpart because he realizes children must learn certain things in life on their own. He prefers to play the role of an advisor and is always available when his children need help.
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Too few people with children are democratic parents, which is the best of the three types. Too much or too little authority often breeds disrespect and resentment. A good parent should offer guidance and advice: he should not try to rule his children or disregard his children completely.
