Final answer:
Altruistic behavior in parents is when they prioritize their child's needs over their own, often at the risk of personal sacrifice. This is integral to the authoritative parenting style, which is considered highly beneficial to a child's development.
Step-by-step explanation:
A parent being able to shift attention to a child's needs from those of one's own is often referred to as altruistic behavior. This type of behavior is observed when a parent puts aside their own needs, desires, or safety to focus on and protect their offspring. An example could be a parent bird distracting a predator to protect its fledglings, running the risk of harm or death. In human contexts, such behavior is associated with the sacrifice of personal comforts and time for the well-being of one's children. It is an essential part of effective parenting styles, particularly the authoritative style, which balances demands and warmth, contributing positively to a child's socioemotional growth.