Learn which of the three parenting styles best describes you as a parent.

Talking Points:

  • An authoritarian parent is strict and firm. They view their role more like a commander of troops where they give the orders and they expect full obedience. 
  • The Permissive parent is non-confrontational and doesn’t enforce a lot of rules. They view their role as being more of a friend than an authority to be obeyed.
  • The authoritative parent is the balance of the other styles. They view their role as training up their kids to take ownership of their own lives and they invite their kids to express their thoughts and feelings.
Discussion:
  1. Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
  2. What parenting style best describes how you were raised? Share both positive and negative examples.
  3. What would your kids say is your style of parenting? Why?
  4. What are the dangers of being too rigid with your kids? Explain.
  5. What are the dangers of being too permissive? Explain.
  6. Why is it important to teach your kids to take ownership of their own choices? What are some things you can do to be more authoritative in your approach?
  7. Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?