What it is: Among the parenting styles, gentle parenting has probably gotten the most attention recently. Gentle parenting is a peaceful and positive approach to parenting characterized by empathy, respect, and understanding. It promotes a relationship with your child based on willingness and choices rather than rules or demands made by a parent. In fact, proponents believe fewer rules that focus on what actually matters means children are more capable of sticking to them.
Why parents do it: Many parents who were raised with a punishment-based approach to discipline have sought an alternative approach with their own kids, and this method treats children more as equals. In place of instilling fear, parents offer understanding. They aim to better acknowledge why, for example, a child acted out or exhibited negative behavior. Then they work with their child to change it positively or, more difficult, accept what cannot be changed.
What research says: Research published in the London Journal of Primary Care shows that gentle parenting may reduce the risk of anxiety and also improve the parent-child bond. Therapist Maggie Nick tells PS that "meeting kids' emotional needs helps them feel safe and secure, not entitled and spoiled."
