There are perhaps as many teaching styles as there are teachers globally. But most teachers veer towards one of the three: Authoritarian, Democratic, Laissez-Faire. While we can box no one style as right or wrong, each has pros and cons.

The Authoritarian approach is suitable for establishing boundaries and expectations and managing those effects. Here, teachers set clear rules for classroom interactions and communicate the consequences of departing from them. But sometimes, students may not automatically defer to the teacher, who may have to build a rapport and respectful relationship over time. 

In the Democratic method, the teacher becomes a facilitator and lets students contribute ideas. It makes students feel heard and valued, but problems may arise with day-to-day behaviour management. The lines can get blurred, and students can think that specific rules don’t apply to them if they disagree. 

The Laissez-Faire style encourages children to be independent and creative. The self-determination aspect can be a positive and powerful thing to learn. However, the lack of a structure can lead to chaos and a self-serving attitude in the classroom. 

Teaching styles ebb and flow until you determine where you sit within the spectrum. You can choose a combination of these three styles, depending on the learning needs. Addressing the negatives of your approach would make behaviour management and outcomes more effective.