Discover Your Parenting Style via Movie Characters

What are the Main Parenting Styles?

Parenting styles are consistent child-rearing methods that affect how children behave, relate, and cope emotionally. Psychologist Diana Baumrind’s parenting styles identify four key types.

Authoritarian parents are strict with little warmth. Authoritative ones balance structure and empathy. Permissive parents are indulgent. Neglectful parenting lacks both guidance and emotional connection.

Matilda (1996) – Authoritarian Parenting

In Matilda, the Wormwoods are classic authoritarian parents in movies. Their strict parenting style, marked by rigid rules and low warmth, reflects real-life risks like emotional suppression and low self-esteem.

Mr. Wormwood’s line, “I’m right, you’re wrong,” perfectly captures the controlling, dismissive tone of authoritarian parenting.

Characteristics of Authoritarian Parenting

• Strict rules with little room for flexibility: Like how Mr. Wormwood controls Matilda’s every move

• Discipline without dialogue: Punishment is imposed, not explained

• Low warmth and emotional distance: Affection is rarely shown

• Demanding, not responsive: Children are expected to obey, not express

• Power and control dominate: As seen in the Wormwoods’ dismissive, mocking tone

Pursuit Of Happyness (2006) - Authoritarian Parenting

Chris Gardner is a single father who is struggling to make ends meet. He is determined to provide a better life for his son, Christopher, and he sets high expectations for him. However, he is also very responsive to Christopher's needs and feelings. He spends time with him, listens to him, and supports him emotionally.

Here are some examples of Chris Gardner's authoritative parenting style in the movie:

• He sets high expectations for Christopher, such as expecting him to behave in a respectful and responsible manner.

• He enforces rules and consequences consistently.

• He provides Christopher with positive reinforcement, such as praise and rewards.

• He spends time with Christopher and listens to him.

• He supports Christopher emotionally, even when he is struggling himself.

Chris Gardner's authoritative parenting style has a positive impact on Christopher. Christopher develops a strong sense of self-efficacy and rationality. He is also able to cope with challenges and setbacks effectively.

The movie The Pursuit of Happyness is a reminder that authoritative parenting is beneficial for children. It helps children to develop into well-rounded and successful adults.

Here are some specific ways that Chris Gardner uses positive reinforcement with his son:

• He praises Christopher for his accomplishments, such as getting good grades in school and behaving well in public.

• He rewards Christopher for his good behaviour, such as taking him to the park or buying him a special treat.

• He expresses his love and appreciation for Christopher on a regular basis.

Chris Gardner's use of positive reinforcement helps to build Christopher's self-confidence and self-esteem. It also encourages Christopher to continue to behave in a positive manner.

Juno (2007) - Permissive Parents

Vanessa and Mark are very loving and supportive parents, but they are also quite permissive. They set a few rules and expectations for Juno, and they allow her to make her own decisions, even when those decisions are questionable.

Here are some examples of Vanessa and Mark's permissive parenting style in the movie:

• They allow Juno to wear whatever she wants, even if it is revealing or inappropriate.

• They allow Juno to date older boys, even though they know that this could be dangerous.

• They do not set a curfew for Juno, and they allow her to come and go as she pleases.

• They do not interfere in Juno's decision to give her baby up for adoption, even though they know that it is a difficult decision.

Vanessa and Mark's permissive parenting style has a mixed impact on Juno. On the one hand, it allows her to be herself and to make her own decisions. This helps her to develop her independence and self-reliance. On the other hand, it also leaves her vulnerable to making poor choices.

For example, Juno's decision to date older boys puts her at risk of being sexually exploited. Her decision to drop out of school also limits her future opportunities.

The movie Juno is a reminder that permissive parenting can have both positive and negative consequences. It is important for parents to strike a balance between being supportive and setting clear boundaries for their children.

Some specific examples of Vanessa and Mark's permissive parenting style in the movie include:

• When Juno tells them that she is pregnant, they do not express any judgment or disapproval. Instead, they offer her support and help her to make decisions about her future.

• When Juno decides to give her baby up for adoption, they support her decision and help her to find a suitable family.

• They allow Juno to live her life on her own terms, even when they disagree with her choices.

Vanessa and Mark's permissive parenting style allows Juno to develop a strong sense of independence and self-reliance. It also helps her to feel loved and supported. However, it is important to note that permissive parenting can also have negative consequences. For example, children who are raised in a permissive environment may have difficulty following rules and authority figures. They may also be more likely to engage in risky behaviors.

Home Alone (1990-2012) - Uninvolved Parenting

The McCallisters are a wealthy and busy family. They are so focused on their own lives and careers that they neglect to spend time with their children. They do not know their children's friends, they do not know their interests, and they do not know their problems.

Here are some examples of the McCallisters' uninvolved parenting style in the movie:

• They leave their eight-year-old son, Kevin, home alone when they go on vacation.

• They do not check on Kevin to make sure that he is safe and well.

• They do not answer Kevin's phone calls when he tries to reach them.

• They do not apologize to Kevin for leaving him home alone.

The McCallisters' uninvolved parenting style has a negative impact on Kevin. He feels lonely and neglected. He is also more likely to engage in risky behaviours, such as setting up booby traps for the burglars.

The movie Home Alone is a reminder that uninvolved parenting is harmful to children. Children need love, support, and guidance from their parents. When parents are uninvolved, their children are more likely to experience problems in school, in their social relationships, and in their overall development.

Some specific examples of the McCallisters' uninvolved parenting style in the movie include:

• When Kevin asks his parents to help him pack for his vacation, they tell him to do it himself.

• When Kevin asks his parents to play a game with him, they tell him that they are too busy.

• When Kevin asks his parents for help with his homework, they tell him to figure it out on his own.

When Kevin tries to tell his parents about his problems, they ignore him.

The McCallisters' uninvolved parenting style leaves Kevin feeling isolated and alone. He does not have anyone to turn to for help or support. This makes him more vulnerable to the dangers that he faces in the movie.

The movie Home Alone is a reminder that it is important for parents to be involved in their children's lives. Children need love, support, and guidance from their parents to thrive.

The Lion King – Authoritative Parenting

Mufasa is an authoritative role model, he sets clear expectations but rules with warmth. His responsive parenting guides Simba with structure, empathy, and respect.

This style supports positive child development. Unlike the harsh Wormwoods or overprotective Marlin in Finding Nemo, Mufasa blends discipline and care, creating a balanced, nurturing environment.

Characteristics of Authoritative Parenting

• Warm yet firm – Mufasa comforts Simba but also sets clear expectations

• Responsive parenting – Listens, teaches, and allows space for mistakes

• Healthy boundaries – Rules are explained, not imposed

• Two-way communication – Open dialogue encourages trust

• Emotional support with structure – A balance Marlin eventually learns in Finding Nemo

Mrs. Doubtfire & Willy Wonka – Permissive Parenting

Both characters reflect indulgent parenting. Mrs. Doubtfire offers endless affection with few rules, while Willy Wonka lets chaos unfold with little discipline.

These lenient parents provide high warmth but minimal structure, which can lead to impulsive behaviour, poor boundaries, and emotional instability in children craving guidance.

Characteristics of Permissive Parenting

• Leniency: Parents allow children to set their own rules with little interference

• Emotional support without rules: High warmth is offered, but expectations are unclear

• Lack of discipline: Misbehaviour is rarely corrected or given consequences

• Indulgent parenting: Prioritises comfort over correction

• Lack of boundaries: Children may struggle with self-control and accountability

Home Alone – Uninvolved Parenting

While Home Alone plays for laughs, it highlights the serious risks of uninvolved parenting. Kevin’s parents exhibit neglectful parenting, leaving him unsupervised and emotionally unsupported.

Despite the comedy, the film underscores the dangers of lack of supervision, poor communication, and how neglect can impact a child’s sense of safety and emotional development.

Characteristics of Uninvolved/Neglectful Parenting

• Emotional distance: Parents are detached from their child’s needs or feelings.

• No involvement: Daily routines, relationships, and responsibilities are often ignored.

• Low warmth and minimal guidance: Little affection or structure is offered.

• Attachment issues: Can lead to developmental delays and long-term insecurity.

To be in your children's memories tomorrow, you have to be in their lives today.

-Barbara Johnson

Beyond the Big Screen: Applying Positive Parenting Techniques

Films can reflect what to do and what to avoid. Here are real-life positive parenting techniques:

• Foster emotional intelligence through open conversations

• Set healthy boundaries with consistent follow-through

• Validate feelings but guide behaviour

• Stay involved in routines and decisions

Model the respect and empathy you expect

Download our parenting tip sheet to start making mindful changes today.

Mental Health Professional For Family Issues

Finding Nemo: (2003) - Helicopter Parenting

Marlin is a single father who is overprotective of Nemo. He has high demands for Nemo, but he is not very responsive to Nemo's needs and feelings. He tries to control every aspect of Nemo's life, from what he eats to where he plays.

Here are some examples of Marlin's helicopter parenting style in the movie:

• He does not allow Nemo to go outside of the reef.

• He does not allow Nemo to play with other fish.

• He does not trust Nemo to make his own decisions.

• He micromanages Nemo's schoolwork.

• He is always worried about Nemo's safety.

Marlin's helicopter parenting style has a negative impact on Nemo. Nemo feels smothered and controlled. He is also afraid of disappointing his father.

The movie Finding Nemo is a reminder that helicopter parenting can be harmful to children. Children need to be able to make their own decisions and learn from their mistakes. Helicopter parents can prevent their children from developing the skills and independence they need to be successful in life.

Some specific examples of Marlin's helicopter parenting style in the movie include:

• When Nemo wants to go on a field trip to the drop-off, Marlin refuses to let him go.

• When Nemo wants to play with other fish, Marlin tells him that they are not safe.

• When Nemo wants to make his own decisions, Marlin tells him that he is too young to know what is best for him.

• When Nemo is doing his homework, Marlin is constantly hovering over him and telling him how to do it.

• When Nemo is in danger, Marlin rushes to save him, even when Nemo is capable of saving himself.

Marlin's helicopter parenting style prevents Nemo from growing and learning. It also makes Nemo feel dependent on his father and unable to make his own decisions. The movie Finding Nemo is a reminder that it is important for parents to give their children the space and freedom they need to grow and learn.

It is important to note that these are just general categories, and there is a wide range of variation within each style. Additionally, parenting styles can change over time and may be adapted to meet the individual needs of each child.

Movies as a means to understand parenting styles

There is no one-size-fits-all parenting style, and the best approach may vary depending on the child and the family's circumstances. However, by understanding different parenting styles and their potential impact on children, parents can make more informed decisions about how to raise their own children.

Popular movies can also be a valuable tool for parents to start conversations with their children about important topics such as discipline, communication, and respect. By watching movies together and discussing the parenting styles depicted, parents and children can learn from each other and develop a closer relationship.

What parenting styles have you seen portrayed in popular movies? What do you think of these portrayals? Share your thoughts in the comments below!