When parents don’t see eye to eye: are differences in parenting styles a bad thing?

StockPlanets/Getty Images Sometimes it can be hard for parents to agree on how to raise children.

One parent might insist their child’s homework has to be finished before they’re allowed to use devices.

The other may think a bit of screen time before study is perfectly reasonable.

Rules and consequences might be the preferred strategy of one parent while the other favours a more flexible approach.

Parents may also differ in how much independence they’re comfortable giving their children.

Is it OK for a child to play on their own at the park without an adult nearby, or should they always be supervised? Parents bring different personalities, experiences and beliefs to raising children, so it’s hardly surprising these disagreements arise.

But what can parents do when they’re not on the same page? What are the different parenting styles? Psychologists traditionally describe four broad parenting styles : Authoritative parents are warm and supportive while setting clear expectations and boundaries.

They listen to their children, explain rules, and encourage independence.

Authoritarian parents place greater emphasis on obedience and discipline, often expecting children to follow rules without questioning them.

Permissive parents are warm and accepting, but tend to set fewer limits or expectations.

Uninvolved parents provide relatively little emotional support, guidance or supervision.

Research generally finds authoritative parenting is associated with better outcomes for children, including fewer emotional and behavioural difficulties.

But these categories are only a guide.

Most parents don’t fit neatly into one style.