The incidence of multiple births has increased dramatically in
the past two decades. The birth rate for twins, who constitute the most common
kind of multiple births, increased 42% from 1980 to 1994 (Lytton, Singh, & Gallagher,
1995). Given this trend, it seems reasonable to assume that many teachers will
have twins and other multiple siblings in their classes at some point in their
classroom careers.
Developmental psychologists have been interested in how parents
influence the development of children's social and instrumental competence
since at least the 1920s. One of the most robust approaches to this area is
the study of what has been called "parenting style." This Digest defines parenting
style, explores four types, and discusses the consequences of the different
styles for children.