Parenting Styles, Gender Differences in

In the field of psychology, parenting style refers to a combination of attitudes, values, beliefs, and the general approach that a parent takes to child [Page 1276]rearing and socialization. This general approach creates an emotional environment in which the child is raised, which research suggests is linked to a host of well-being outcomes in both childhood and adulthood. In this entry, the types and dimensions of parenting styles in traditional, two-parent, heteronormative families are reviewed, including an examination of differences in the styles of mothers and fathers. The effects of parenting styles are also examined, and future directions for research on this topic are suggested.