Learn which of the three parenting styles best describes you as a parent.

Talking Points:

  • An authoritarian parent is strict and firm. They view their role more like a commander of troops where they give the orders and they expect full obedience. Ephesians 6:4
  • The Permissive parent is non-confrontational and doesn’t enforce a lot of rules. They view their role as being more of a friend than an authority to be obeyed.
  • The authoritative parent is the balance of the other styles. They view their role as training up their kids to take ownership of their own lives and they invite their kids to express their thoughts and feelings. Proverbs 22:6
Discussion:
  1. Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
  2. What parenting style best describes how you were raised? Share both positive and negative examples.
  3. What would your kids say is your style of parenting? Why?
  4. Read Ephesians 6:4. What are some examples of things parents might do that are unhelpful to their kids? What are the dangers of being too rigid with your kids?
  5. What are the dangers of being too permissive? Explain. Why can’t you just be your kid’s friend?
  6. Read Proverbs 22:6. Why is it important to teach your kids to take ownership of their own choices? What are some values you want to instill in your kids and how do you lead them towards those?
  7. Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?

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