Reflective The Effects of an Authoritative Parenting Style

Introduction

Parenting plays a critical role in the emotional, intellectual, and social development of a child. Understanding and adopting an effective parenting style is essential for raising well-rounded individuals. Parenting styles are commonly defined as “the patterns of practices that parents exhibit in relation to their children.” Among the many styles, the authoritative approach stands out for its balance of high expectations and emotional responsiveness. This style emphasizes setting clear standards for behavior while providing rational explanations and emotional support, creating an environment conducive to both discipline and trust.

Parenting styles are deeply influenced by cultural values and beliefs. Cultural norms and historical experiences shape how parents interact with their children, often reflecting deeply ingrained practices. In this context, the authoritative parenting style in Japanese American culture becomes particularly noteworthy. This reflection examines how the interplay of Japanese American cultural norms and the authoritative parenting style shaped my upbringing, instilling values of independence, respect, and resilience while reflecting broader cultural dynamics.

Reflective: The Effects of an Authoritative Parenting Style

The authoritative parenting style characterized my upbringing, particularly through my mother’s influence. This style provided a structured yet supportive environment, where boundaries were respected, but open communication was encouraged. My parents established clear rules and expectations, but they were also approachable when it came to discussing issues or seeking guidance. This balance helped me internalize lessons and develop self-discipline.

For instance, when I disobeyed or made mistakes, my parents rarely resorted to punishment. Instead, they explained why my actions were wrong and emphasized the importance of making better choices. This approach aligns with findings by Nishimura and Suzuki (2015), who observed that authoritative parenting in Japan emphasizes rational, issue-oriented communication, encouraging children to reflect on their behavior. My parents’ focus on dialogue fostered a sense of accountability and allowed me to learn from my experiences without fear of harsh consequences.

However, this approach also highlighted cultural nuances. Unlike some of my peers, who had a “best friend” relationship with their parents, my dynamic with mine was more hierarchical. My parents maintained clear authority, emphasizing the age and experience gap between us. While this sometimes felt restrictive, it reinforced the value of respecting elders and acknowledging their wisdom, which is deeply rooted in Japanese cultural traditions.

Cultural Influences on Parenting

Japanese American culture heavily influenced my parents’ approach to raising me, shaped by historical and social contexts. My grandparents’ experiences during World War II, including the trauma of internment camps, left an indelible mark on how my family viewed resilience and survival. They faced discrimination, alienation, and immense hardship, yet persevered to provide a better future for their children. This resilience became a cornerstone of my family’s values and was reflected in the way my parents raised me.

My mother’s upbringing illustrates the cultural blend of Japanese traditions and American influences. While her parents prioritized financial stability and self-reliance, they showed limited emotional affection, as was typical in Japanese culture. Physical expressions of love, such as hugs and verbal affirmations, were rare, requiring my mother to adapt to Western norms of parenting on her own. As a result, my upbringing was a mix of both worlds—emotional support combined with an emphasis on independence and resilience.

This dual influence also shaped my understanding of success and failure. My parents instilled in me the importance of humility, a value deeply ingrained in Japanese culture. Boasting about accomplishments was discouraged, emphasizing quiet pride and respect for others. However, as I grew older, I recognized the importance of celebrating achievements in appropriate settings, balancing humility with self-confidence.

Personal Experiences and Cultural Norms

Specific cultural norms further reinforced my parents’ authoritative approach. For example, bringing a gift when visiting someone’s home was an unwritten rule in my family. Arriving empty-handed was considered disrespectful, reflecting the Japanese emphasis on hospitality and thoughtfulness. Even now, as an adult, this practice remains second nature to me, symbolizing gratitude and consideration for others.

Another norm was the expectation of humility in conversations. When discussing achievements, my mother often reminded me not to draw attention to myself, as it was considered inappropriate to overshadow others. This taught me the value of modesty, but it also sparked reflection on the importance of self-expression. I eventually learned to navigate these expectations, recognizing when to celebrate personal milestones while maintaining respect for cultural values.

These cultural influences were not always easy to reconcile with the American environment I grew up in. While my peers often enjoyed casual, peer-like relationships with their parents, my dynamic with mine emphasized respect and clear boundaries. This sometimes made me feel different, but it also gave me a deeper appreciation for the unique blend of values that shaped my upbringing.

Conclusion

My upbringing was profoundly shaped by the authoritative parenting style and the cultural influences of my Japanese American heritage. My grandparents’ resilience and my parents’ balanced approach to discipline and support instilled values of independence, respect, and humility. While I continue to honor these traditions, I also strive to adapt and grow, embracing a blend of cultural practices that reflect my personal values. This journey has helped me appreciate the complexities of parenting and cultural identity, and I hope to carry forward the best of these influences as I raise my own children in the future.

References

1. Nishimura, Y., & Suzuki, K. (2015). "The Impact of Authoritative, Authoritarian, and Permissive Parenting Styles on Children’s Later Mental Health in Japan: Focusing on Parent and Child Gender." Journal of Family Psychology, 29(4), 600-605.
2. Sakamoto, U. (2014). "Parenting Styles and Mental Health: A Japanese Perspective." Asian Journal of Psychology, 10(3), 250-256.
3. Smith, J. (2013). "Cultural Influences on Parenting Styles." Cultural Psychology, 7(2), 123-130.