God is Authoritative

Some of you know (because I've told you way more than you wanted to hear *coughAndreacough* sorry...),  my research project is about parenting styles and how that effects children's moral socialization.  (In other words, how does they way parents interact with kids effect the way they perceive and internalize the difference between right and wrong?)  I've been reading a lot about parenting styles.  There are 3 basic ones:
Authoritarian: High demandingness, low warmth.  These are the no-nonsense parents.  What they say goes because they said so.  No negotiation, no flexibility.
Permissive: Low demandingness, high warmth.  These are the ones who cater to their child's every need.  They have no expectations and no limits.
Authoritative:  High demandingness, high warmth.  These parents have standards of behavior, but they are realistic and developmentally appropriate for the child.  They also explain and give reasons for the rules.  They are willing to negotiate on less important things, like what their kids wear or stuff like that.

I bet you can guess which one has the most positive outcomes for kids.  Children of Authoritative parents a usually the most obedient, have fewer behavior problems out side of the home, are independent, creative, and self-reliant.  They are also happier, have better relationships with their parents, and view their parents in a more positive light. 

God is Authoritative and I will tell you why.  He has clear expectations for how we should behave.  They are the commandments.  They all have reasons behind them, which are explained to us through the Prophets, the scriptures, and personal revelation.  He wants us to learn the rules and principles behind His law so that one day we can be like Him.  He is sensitive to where we are in our spiritual development and never gives us tasks that are beyond our capabilities; they are always "developmentally appropriate."  His expectations are realistic: do the best that you can and keep trying.  He even provided us with a Savior so that when we don't meet His standards (notice I said when not if...), it is ok.  We can repent.  He is warm and responsive to our needs.  His love is absolutely unconditionally and I for one have been blessed by his warmth infinitely more than I deserve. 

It is amazing how everything, everything, comes back to the gospel of Jesus Christ.  This is why I get so frustrated with people who see faith and science as mutually exclusive:  I've been reading scientific studies that totally support my faith that God is the Perfect Parent.  Science has strengthened my faith. 

I am so glad that I know what I know and have the examples that I have.  I love my Heavenly Father so much! 

Anyway, I don't know if that made any sense.  I had a light bulb moment with this and wanted to share it with you all :)