National Counselor Exam (NCE)

Which parenting style is characterized by high demands and low responsiveness?

1. Permissive

2. Authoritative

3. Authoritarian

4. Neglectful

The correct answer is: Authoritarian

The parenting style characterized by high demands and low responsiveness is authoritarian. This approach involves parents who have strict rules and expectations but are less likely to provide warmth, support, or feedback to their children. As a result, children raised in this environment may experience considerable pressure to conform to the expectations set by their parents without adequate emotional support. Authoritarian parents tend to prioritize obedience and discipline, often utilizing a top-down approach that emphasizes control over the child, rather than fostering open communication and emotional connection. The low responsiveness aspect means that these parents may not engage with their child's emotional needs, leading to a hierarchical relationship where the child's input and feelings are often undervalued or ignored. This can result in children who may follow rules strictly but might struggle with self-esteem and social skills due to the lack of nurturing and supportive interactions from their parents.