Question 5

The authoritarian style of parenting is characterized by expecting obedience from children and strict adherence to parental rules.

Authoritarian parenting is defined by parents who expect their children to be obedient and to follow the rules they establish without question.

A) The parents are disengaged from their children

This option describes a negligent parenting style rather than authoritarian. In authoritarian parenting, parents are very much involved in their children's lives, although they may not be supportive or nurturing.

B) The parents expect their children to be obedient and follow all of the rules the parents have made

This option accurately captures the essence of authoritarian parenting. Parents in this style impose strict rules and expect compliance, emphasizing obedience and discipline over flexibility or emotional responsiveness.

C) The parents have expectations of their children that are below what could reasonably be expected from them

This statement refers to permissive or uninvolved parenting styles, which do not align with the authoritarian approach. Authoritarian parents set high expectations regarding obedience and adherence to rules.

D) The parents are supportive but not overbearing and allow their children to make constructive mistakes

This description fits a more authoritative style of parenting, which balances expectations with support. Authoritarian parenting, in contrast, is less about support and more focused on obedience and rule-following.

Conclusion

The correct answer, option B, distinctly highlights the core characteristic of authoritarian parenting as defined by Baumrind, which is the expectation of obedience and strict adherence to rules. All other options misrepresent the nature of authoritarian parenting, either by describing disengagement or by highlighting supportive and flexible approaches that do not align with this style.