Question

Which parenting style is most likely to promote psychological autonomy in adolescents?

Answer 1

The authoritative parenting style is the most effective for fostering psychological autonomy in adolescents, as it combines reasonable expectations with warmth, flexibility, and open communication.

Step-by-step explanation:

Of the four parenting styles described by Diana Baumrind - authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, and uninvolved - the authoritative parenting style is most likely to promote psychological autonomy in adolescents. This style fosters open communication, nurtures warmth and affection, and encourages the development of self-discipline and social competence. Authoritative parents set reasonable expectations and consistent limits, while also demonstrating flexibility, such as allowing a later bedtime during a family vacation if appropriate.

Contrastingly, authoritarian parenting, with its strict enforcement of rules and lack of warmth, can lead to children who are anxious and withdrawn. The permissive style often results in a lack of self-discipline and can lead to risky behaviors, although there can be positive outcomes like higher self-esteem. The uninvolved style, often characterized by indifference, can lead to emotional withdrawal and substance abuse in children.

Answer 2

The parenting style that is most likely to promote psychological autonomy in adolescents is the authoritative parenting style.

Authoritative parents are characterized by having high levels of warmth, support, and responsiveness towards their children, while also maintaining clear and consistent rules and expectations. They provide a nurturing and secure environment while allowing their adolescents to have a sense of independence and make decisions within certain boundaries.

This parenting style encourages open communication, active listening, and mutual respect between parents and adolescents. It allows adolescents to develop a sense of autonomy and individuality while also providing guidance and setting appropriate limits. As a result, adolescents raised with authoritative parenting tend to have higher levels of psychological autonomy, self-esteem, and self-reliance compared to those raised with other parenting styles.