What does it mean to be an authoritative parent?

An authoritative parent finds a balance between discipline and warmth. While the parent expects their child to follow their instructions, they work together with their child to control their behavior. Authoritative parents stop and listen to their child’s feelings and work to reason with them (Holden, 2025).

Communication Patterns

Through the lens of a scenario:

As the 8-year-old refuses to get ready for school on time, their authoritative parent would take time to understand why they do not want to get ready. The parent would explain why they need to get ready and could share that not only does the child need to get ready, but the parent likely has to get ready too. The parent could also share why going to school is important for the child and be followed by supporting the child getting ready (e.g., help them pick a school outfit, prepare their bookbag).

Discipline Approaches

 If the child is still refusing to get ready for school, the parent will reiterate the expectations that the parents have previously shared with them. An authoritative parent will work not to continuously use punishment as a discipline because they would rather work through their child’s behavior with them. They would probably express the consequences the child will receive, such as getting in trouble with the school if they miss school without a valid reason.

Real-World Scenario

How would an authoritative parent react to their 8-year-old refusing to get ready for school?

They might say:

“I am upset that you are not getting ready for school. Can you tell me why you do not want to get ready for the day and go to school?