4 best Parenting Style to Raise Confident and well-Rounded Kids

What’s the Best Parenting Style? A Father’s Reflection

As a parent, I often find myself reflecting on what parenting style is best for raising happy, responsible, and emotionally healthy children. Being a father of four, I know firsthand that no two children are the same—and neither are the methods that work best for them. Still, in my quest to become a better parent, I came across the work of renowned psychologist Diana Baumrind, whose research identifies four primary parenting styles. Her framework helped me understand my approach more clearly and guided me in finding the right balance.

Four Major Parenting Styles

Let’s begin with the Authoritarian style, where parents enforce strict rules and expect absolute obedience. In this parenting style, punishment is a common tool, with little room for dialogue or flexibility. While this approach may work in the short term for enforcing discipline, the long-term consequences can be troubling—children raised this way often suffer from low self-esteem and may develop a tendency to rebel when they grow older.

The second is the Authoritative style, which is widely considered the most effective. This parenting style strikes a balance between high expectations and emotional responsiveness. Authoritative parents set clear boundaries but also take the time to explain the reasons behind the rules. They encourage open communication and respect their children’s opinions. Research consistently shows that this parenting style leads to positive outcomes like higher academic performance, stronger social skills, and greater emotional well-being.

Third is the Permissive style, which involves being overly lenient. In this approach, parents avoid setting firm boundaries and often take on the role of a friend rather than a guide. While this parenting style may seem loving on the surface, it often results in impulsive behaviour, poor academic performance, and a lack of self-control in children. I’ve seen this in families where the lack of structure leaves kids confused about what’s acceptable and what’s not.

Lastly, there’s the Neglective style, also known as uninvolved parenting. A lack of both responsiveness and demands characterises this parenting style. Parents who adopt this approach are often emotionally distant and uninvolved in their children’s lives. Unfortunately, the outcomes are usually negative—children raised with this parenting style may experience behavioral problems, emotional detachment, and low self-worth.

Which Parenting Style Works Best?

So, what’s the most effective style? Based on both research and my personal experience, the authoritative style stands out as the most balanced and beneficial. It offers a healthy mix of discipline, warmth, guidance, and independence. Children raised this way tend to grow up confident, emotionally intelligent, and self-motivated.

As a father, I’ve realised that embracing an authoritative style allows me to stay connected with my kids while also teaching them responsibility. It helps me build trust and ensures that discipline doesn’t come at the cost of love or emotional support.

Learn to Reward Your Kids

One key element of this parenting style is the use of positive reinforcement. I believe that when we reward our kids for good behaviour or achievements, we motivate them to keep striving. It could be something simple—like letting them watch their favorite movie, or taking them on a surprise outing. These moments of joy serve as reminders that their efforts are seen and appreciated.

In contrast, when we adopt a controlling parenting style without room for positive feedback, kids often feel stressed and anxious. I’ve noticed that my children thrive when I reward them for their efforts and allow them space to express themselves.

Discipline is Key

Still, discipline is non-negotiable. A well-rounded parenting style includes teaching self-control, respect, and time management. I consistently remind my kids that discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment. I help them learn to regulate their screen time, manage their studies, and make time for rest and play.

The key is balance—praise where it’s due, and correction when it’s needed. That’s the essence of an effective parenting style.

Final Thoughts

I firmly believe that we are here to guide, not control, our children. The right parenting style nurtures independence, not fear. It builds confidence rather than doubt.

In the end, choosing a parenting style isn’t about picking a fixed formula—it’s about staying adaptable, connected, and intentional. As a father, I’ve seen that when we lead with empathy and structure, our children grow into well-rounded individuals.

The most powerful gift we can give them is not perfection—but a parenting style grounded in love, trust, and thoughtful discipline.

So what’s your thoughts which parenting style is best? Let us know in the comments. Want to explore 10 Powerful ways to help kids to handle study pressure. Here is the link.