The Difference Between Authoritarian and Authoritative Parenting
How parents raise their children sets the tone for how they will interact with others as adults, which can impact everything from how they work in the workplace to whether or not they are able to form healthy relationships. While it’s true that parenting styles vary, experts agree that authoritative parenting is one of the best for kids because it offers a balance of warmth, support, and high expectations. It also encourages open communication and flexibility, and it helps kids develop a sense of independence.
There are many definitions of the word authority, but the most commonly used one is “difference between authoritarian and authoritative.” The word means that someone has the right or power to make decisions for themselves or others. For example, the person who gives directions on a map is an authoritative source of information.
Understanding the Basics: Authoritarian vs. Authoritative Parenting
Authoritarian governments are often characterized by suppressing dissent and controlling the dissemination of information. In this way, they can claim legitimacy even though their policies may be unpopular among the general population. They can create a false image of popular support and then impose their will on the people.
Similarly, authoritarian parents stress strict obedience and parental control. For instance, if a child wants to go to a party, her authoritarian parent would simply say no without offering any explanation or compromise. But if a child is demonstrating problem behaviors, an authoritative parent will focus on understanding the underlying issue and teach them better ways to respond to conflict instead of simply punishing them for their actions.