Within each family unit, caregivers take on a role based on the interactions and bonds they establish with their children, which results in a specific parenting style (García, 2021; Couñago, 2022). This style is not only reflected in the way of communication but also in the strategies, behaviors, and tools used to make decisions and resolve family conflicts (García, 2021). According to Couñago (2022), an active concern for providing quality education during childhood significantly contributes to preventing emotional, psychological, and social problems in children’s development.
Over the years, multiple studies have sought to define the role of caregivers in their relationship with their children (García, 2021). One of the most prominent contributions in this field is the longitudinal study conducted in 1971 by psychologist Diana Baumrind, who explored how parenting behaviors influence the formation of children’s personalities. As a result of this work, Baumrind classified parenting styles into three types: authoritarian families, permissive families and democratic families (García, 2021).
Characteristics of Democratic Families
Democratic families, also known as non-dominant authoritative families, are distinguished by their ability to find a proper balance between authority and permissiveness (García, 2021). This balance translates into an environment where caregivers provide affection and respect to their children, validating their viewpoints and explaining the reasons behind each family decision. Simultaneously, they establish clear rules and boundaries, applying firmness when necessary, which contributes to a structured and understandable environment (García, 2021). Additionally, the Colombian Institute of Family Welfare (2020) points out that the active participation of all family members in decision-making promotes commitments and responsibilities aligned with each member's age and capabilities.
The dynamics in this type of family encourage the inclusion of children in decision-making, giving them a sense of belonging and importance (García, 2021). This approach strengthens their self-esteem by allowing them to express their perspectives and validate their ability to contribute to the family environment (García, 2021). These caregivers promote critical thinking and autonomy, key elements for personal development (Couñago, 2022). Moreover, open communication and affectionate expression solidify emotional bonds, making coexistence easier and promoting values such as respect and independence. These family connections facilitate the learning of social skills, emotional intelligence, and good behavior based on mutual respect (Couñago, 2022). According to García (2021), this family model prepares children to face and resolve situations autonomously, empowering them in their growth process.
The promotion of autonomy is another key aspect of democratic families (Couñago, 2022). Children benefit greatly when given the opportunity to make age-appropriate decisions, such as choosing their clothes or food. This practice not only strengthens their self-esteem but also helps them develop problem-solving skills and build a more confident and independent personality (Couñago, 2022). Finally, the rules established in democratic families are brief, clear, and easy for all members to understand, particularly for younger children (Medina, 2020). These rules, which include both the reasons and consequences of their enforcement, are always reasonable and adjusted to each member's developmental stages. According to Medina (2020), this structure reinforces the sense of responsibility and facilitates harmonious coexistence within the home.
Consequences of Democratic Parenting Style
Self-Esteem
Children raised in a democratic environment develop a solid self-esteem (García, 2021; Couñago, 2022). According to Couñago (2022) and García (2021), this parenting style fosters the security and confidence necessary for children to explore their abilities, surpass themselves, and face challenges with a positive attitude.
Self-Concept
A democratic upbringing also strengthens children's self-concept (García, 2021). According to García (2021), children develop a balanced perception of themselves, which not only reinforces their self-esteem but also enables them to manage their emotions healthily and demonstrate effective control over their actions.
Persistence
Persistence is another notable characteristic in children raised under a democratic style (García, 2021). Children raised in a democratic environment develop remarkable willpower and tenacity, allowing them to move toward their goals with determination. Additionally, according to García (2021), they manage frustration well and trust their ability to overcome obstacles, reinforcing their resilience.
Social Skills
In the social realm, children raised in a democratic environment tend to have positive interpersonal relationships, allowing them to form lasting and satisfying connections with others (García, 2021). According to García (2021), they can interact effectively with peers, adapt easily to different environments, and establish healthy social bonds.
Frustration Tolerance
Finally, a democratic environment also fosters high frustration tolerance (García, 2021). Children raised in a democratic environment learn to view mistakes as valuable learning opportunities. According to García (2021), this perspective, combined with their perseverance, enables them to face complex challenges and stay focused on their goals.
References
Couñago, A. (2022). Estilo de crianza democrático. Eres Mamá. Recuperado 27 de agosto de 2022, de https://eresmama.com/estilo-de-crianza-democratico/
García, L. (2021). Padres democráticos: características, tipos y consecuencias. parabebes.com. Recuperado 27 de agosto de 2022, de https://www.parabebes.com/padres-democraticos-caracteristicas-tipos-y-consecuencias-5539.html
Instituto Colombiano de Bienestar Familiar. (2020). ¿Cómo construir una familia democrática? Instituto Colombiano de Bienestar Familiar. Recuperado 27 de agosto de 2022, de https://www.icbf.gov.co/mis-manos-te-ensenan/como-construir-una-familia-democratica
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