In the 1960s, psychologist Diana Baumrind conducted groundbreaking studies into child-rearing and identified a number of distinctive parenting styles. Since then, researchers have fine-tuned their understanding of the impact that these different styles have on children as they mature.

2. In the 1960s, psychologist Diana Baumrind
conducted groundbreaking studies into child-rearing
and identified a number of distinctive parenting
styles. Since then, researchers have fine-tuned
their understanding of the impact that these
different styles have on children as they mature.
Not surprisingly, parents who are uninvolved or
overly permissive raise children who lack self-
control, self-esteem, and overall competence. With
little guidance, these children fail to truly mature
socially and intellectually.

3. Authoritarian parenting styles demand
obedience. These have a slight advantage
over more detached parenting styles in that
they produce children who are generally
capable. However, these children grow to
become largely unhappy and poorly
equipped for social interactions.

4. The ideal parenting style appears to be
authoritative in nature. This style of parenting
relies on reason in dealing with children's
demands. The perception of fairness makes
children more likely to obey their parents. More
importantly, the ideals of rationality and fairness
become internalized in those children, who
eventually mature to become well-adjusted,
successful, and generally happy people.