Which parenting style is characterized by low demands and low responsiveness, often neglectful?

• A. Authoritative
• B. Authoritarian
• C. Permissive
• D. Uninvolved

Answer: (D)

Two dimensions define parenting styles: warmth/responsiveness and control/demandingness. When both are low, the style is uninvolved. This means the caregiver is emotionally distant and inattentive, offering little supervision, guidance, or nurturing. Basic needs and routines may be neglected, and the parent may be largely unavailable due to disengagement or other stressors. Because there is little contact or attunement to the child's development, children can struggle with trust and attachment, and face challenges in school and with peers. This combination of low warmth and low structure sets it apart from other styles, where warmth or expectations are higher even if one dimension remains strong.