Parenting Styles

The 'Funny' Parent

Sees life as a game of fun and laughter
• Likes child to try new things
• Has a tendency to use strong words and hurt child's self worth, even in public
• Gives in to child to avoid unpleasant scenes
• Has little respect for child's privacy

The 'Controlling' Parent

Child lives for him; sets rules for child to keep
• Is difficult to please
• Does not praise easily
• Puts undue pressure on child

The 'Shadow' Parent

Is not like a real person to child
• Is someone child would tell secrets to
• Punishes child by being silent towards him
• Gives child little support or attention
• Lets child do what he wants most of the time
• Does not give of himself to child

The 'Always There' Parent

Takes over child's life; Spends a lot of time with him
• Is overly protective
• Is involved in child's life all the time
• Punishes child for being independent

The 'Too Understanding' Parent

Lets child get away with doing anything he wants
• Tries too hard to please everyone
• Acts based more on feelings than on reason
• Does not set limits for child

The 'Helpful' Parent

Helps child grow as a person
• Keeps a balance between work and family life
• Helps develop child's sense of self-worth
• Helps child think about problems but does not solve them for him
• Sets limits
• Encourages child to think for himself
• Is patient