Which parenting style is most likely to help children achieve high congruence, meaning a strong alignment between their self-concept and their experiences?

• A. Authoritative parenting, which combines warmth and reasonable boundaries
• B. Neglectful parenting, which provides minimal emotional support or involvement
• C. Authoritarian parenting, which emphasizes strict rules and obedience
• D. Permissive parenting, which allows children to do as they please with little guidance

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of congruence in psychology, which refers to the alignment between a person's self-concept (how they see themselves) and their actual experiences. High congruence means the individual has a realistic and positive self-view that matches their real-life experiences.
2. Review the four main parenting styles: Authoritative (warmth + reasonable boundaries), Authoritarian (strict rules + obedience), Permissive (few rules + high freedom), and Neglectful (minimal involvement).
3. Analyze how each parenting style influences a child's development of self-concept and emotional well-being. Consider that warmth and reasonable boundaries tend to promote healthy self-esteem and realistic self-perceptions.
4. Recognize that authoritative parenting, which balances support and structure, encourages children to explore, learn from experiences, and develop a self-concept that aligns well with reality, fostering high congruence.
5. Contrast this with other styles: authoritarian may lead to low self-esteem due to strictness, permissive may cause confusion due to lack of guidance, and neglectful may result in poor self-concept due to lack of support.