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The role of a parent is not easy. Every parent wants to raise their children as best as they can, hoping they will grow to be respected and responsible adults in society. In this regard, authoritarian parents are like any other parents out there. But where do we draw the line from balanced discipline to excessive control? This line often blurs, that's why parenting is always a challenge. Maybe authoritarian parents aren't aware when they crossed the line or maybe that's the only way they know how to raise a child.

Authoritarian parenting can produce terrible consequences. These parents are highly demanding and directive. They are also not very supportive and lacking of parental warmth. The two types are nonauthoritarian- directive and authoritarian- directive. Nonauthoritarian- directive parents are directive but not intrusive, while authoritarian- directive parents are highly intrusive or meddlesome. Generally, this parenting style establishes clear and unbending rules, commands the child what to do and not what to do. The parents expect their children to accept their values and judgments without explanation. There is a strict punishment for any misbehavior.

Nobody wants to be absolutely controlled, yelled at, threatened, blamed, nagged and spanked, especially children. While they may end up complying with commands or directions in order to avoid punishment, they are apt to resist in other areas. Strict or severe punishment often generates rebellion. Most children from authoritarian families will likely perform moderately in school, but they usually have low self-esteem, high levels of depression and poor social skills.

Controlling behavior may work in the short run but can create problems or negative consequences in the end. Authoritarian parents can get into power struggles with their children. Their child may resist in certain areas like homework, brushing the teeth, taking a bath and getting ready for school. Their teenagers may smoke, drink alcohol or indulge in drugs and violence. Authoritarian parents will feel the pressure too, and may feel resentful towards the child. This also gives the feeling that parenting is a burden.

Authoritarian parenting may be useful and effective in a society that experiences little change. This style does not go well in today's rapidly changing society, where children are heard and given more choices. Parents can still give directions to their children but should be more responsive or supportive as well, to the emotional, mental and physical needs of their children. They should always try to find a balance, for parenting to become a happy and fulfilling experience.

References:

http://w ww.apples4theteacher.com/resou rces
http://www.kidsource.com/b etter.world.press/parenting.ht ml

Learn more about this author, Sherry Singson.
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