University of Central Florida (UCF) DEP2004 Developmental Psychology Practice Test 1

Authoritative parenting is characterized by a balanced approach that combines high levels of demand and high levels of responsiveness. This means that authoritative parents set clear standards and expectations for their children while also being supportive, nurturing, and understanding of their children's needs and feelings. This parenting style fosters a positive parent-child relationship, encouraging children to develop a sense of autonomy and self-regulation.

High responsiveness refers to the ability of parents to be attentive and sensitive to their child's needs, while high demands indicate that parents have high expectations for their child's behavior and achievement. This combination helps children develop self-discipline and social competence, as they feel valued and understood while also being guided towards appropriate behaviors and goals.

In contrast, other styles, such as authoritarian parenting, exhibit high demands with low responsiveness, which can lead to children feeling oppressed and less likely to develop positive self-esteem. On the other hand, permissive parenting is characterized by low demands and high responsiveness, potentially resulting in children lacking boundaries and structures. Inconsistent demands contribute to confusion and insecurity in children, as they struggle to understand expectations and limits.

Therefore, the defining trait of authoritative parenting lies in its effective balance of expectations and emotional support, which helps promote healthy psychological development in children.