Diana Baumrind Case Study

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Diana Baumrind (1971), has been credited for defining three specific parenting styles and their consequences for children. These are: authoritative, authoritarian, and permissive styles of parenting based on levels of warmth and control used by the parent in disciplining the child. According to Baumrind (1991), parenting styles are meant to capture normal variations in the attempt of parents to socialize children. Two points are critical in understanding this definition:
i. Parenting style is meant to describe normal variations in parenting. In other words, the parenting style typology Baumrind developed should not be understood to include deviant parenting, such as might be observed in abusive or neglectful homes. ii. Baumrind (1991), asserted that normal parenting revolves around issues of control. Although parents may differ in how they exert control or socialize their children and the extent to which they do so, it is assumed that the primary role of all parents is to influence, educate, and socialize their children.
The authoritative style of parenting has the following characteristics: an expectation of independence and mature behaviour from the child and clear setting of standards by the parents; firm enforcement of rules and standards, using commands and sanctions when necessary; encouragement of the child’s independence and individuality. Baumrind (1991), stated that in parental control and support, authoritative parenting style is high. She found that the