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What is Permissive Parenting?

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Summary

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Permissive parenting involves being warm and loving with few rules or expectations for kids. Parents may struggle to say “no” and treat their child more like an equal than a kid.

Frequently Asked Question

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What is permissive parenting?

Permissive parenting is a style characterized by high responsiveness but low expectations and guidance. It involves being nurturing but setting few limits.

How does permissive parenting affect children with special needs?

Permissive parenting can make it harder for children with special needs to develop self-regulation and understand boundaries. Consistent, loving limits are important.

What are some signs of permissive parenting?

Signs of permissive parenting include having few rules, avoiding saying “no,” inconsistent consequences, and treating kids like equals in decision-making.

Can permissive parenting be harmful?

While permissive parenting comes from a caring place, research suggests it’s linked to poorer self-control and social-emotional skills. A balance of responsiveness and guidance is ideal.

Scientific Definition

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Permissive parenting is a style characterized by high responsiveness but low demandingness. Permissive parents are nurturing and accepting, but provide little guidance, discipline, or expectations for mature behavior. Research suggests that permissive parenting is associated with poorer self-regulation and social-emotional skills in children.

Helpful Resources:
Very Well Family
Psychology Today
HealthyChildren.org

Permissive Parenting in Action

Sarah’s parents adore her and hate seeing her upset. As a result, they rarely tell her “no” or set limits.

  • At mealtime, Sarah only wants to eat chicken nuggets. Her parents give in because they don’t want a meltdown.
  • When playing games, Sarah makes up her own rules. Her parents go along with it to keep the peace.
  • Sarah’s bedtime is supposed to be 8pm, but she often stays up much later because her parents have a hard time enforcing it.

While Sarah’s parents are loving, their permissive approach makes it harder for her to develop self-discipline and understand boundaries. With some caring but firm limits, Sarah can feel more secure and learn valuable life skills.

How is Permissive Parenting Used

Permissive parenting prioritizes being responsive and nurturing over setting expectations. Here are some ways it may look in practice:

  • Few rules or consequences. Permissive parents avoid saying “no” or enforce rules inconsistently.
  • Lack of structure. Days have little routine or predictability.
  • Treating kids like equals. Parents may let kids decide things typically determined by adults.
Permissive Parenting Potential Impact
High responsiveness Kids feel loved
Low expectations Lack of self-control

Permissive parenting comes from a caring place, but kids thrive with a balance of unconditional love and age-appropriate limits. This helps them feel secure while developing important skills.