Growing up with laissez-faire parents can significantly shape one’s adult behavior.

This parenting style often grants children the freedom to explore their thoughts and make decisions without strict boundaries.

As a result, many individuals develop strong independent thinking skills, adapt easily to new situations, and have a high tolerance for risk.

While this upbringing fosters creativity and self-motivation, it can also lead to challenges, such as difficulties with authority and maintaining discipline.

Understanding these traits can offer valuable insights into the complexities of adulthood shaped by a laissez-faire environment.

1) They tend to be independent thinkers

Being raised by laissez-faire parents often means you grow up without a lot of the traditional boundaries and regulations that other kids might have.

In some ways, this can be a good thing.

It can mean you’re given the space to explore your own thoughts and ideas without too much interference. You’re encouraged to make your own decisions and to learn from your mistakes.

The result?

You might find that as an adult, you’re a bit more of an independent thinker than most.

You’re comfortable forming your own opinions, even if they go against the grain. You’re not afraid to challenge the status quo, and that can be a very powerful trait to have.

But, like all things, it’s about balance. Too much independence can make teamwork difficult and make you seem stubborn or unapproachable.

It’s about finding that sweet spot between standing your ground and knowing when to compromise.

2) They may struggle with authority

On the flip side of that coin, growing up with laissez-faire parents can sometimes make it tricky when it comes to dealing with authority.

You’re used to making your own rules, so when someone else tries to enforce theirs, it can be a bit of a shock to the system.

Take me for example.

In school, I had a tough time with teachers who were strict or had a lot of rules. I was never disrespectfully defiant, but I often found myself questioning their methods or decisions.

I was used to figuring things out in my own way, and having someone else dictate how I should do things didn’t sit well with me.

This can carry over into adulthood in a number of ways, from work relationships to interactions with law enforcement.

It’s not about being a rebel without a cause, but rather an internal tug-of-war between your natural inclination for independence and the societal need for structure and obedience.

3) They tend to be more adaptable

Our upbringing often requires us to adapt to situations on the fly, figuring things out as we go along. There’s no set path or rigid structure to follow, so we learn to be like water, flowing and adjusting as necessary.

In high school, for instance, I remember having to organize my own study schedules and manage my time because my parents didn’t do it for me.

They believed in letting me figure things out, even if it meant stumbling a bit along the way.

As an adult, this adaptability has been invaluable.

Whether it’s navigating a new city after a move, starting a job in an unfamiliar industry, or dealing with an unexpected crisis, I’ve found that my ability to adapt and pivot is one of my greatest strengths.

But sometimes, this go-with-the-flow mentality can also lead to a lack of long-term planning or the tendency to avoid confrontation instead of addressing issues head-on.

4) They often have a high tolerance for risk

Growing up in a laissez-faire household can often lead to a higher tolerance for risk in adulthood.

Why is that?

Well, when you’re used to figuring things out on your own, you become more comfortable with uncertainty. You learn that mistakes aren’t the end of the world, but rather opportunities for growth and learning.

In fact, a study found that entrepreneurs often have a higher than average tolerance for risk. And guess what? Many of these entrepreneurs reported being raised in laissez-faire households.

For me, this manifested in my decision to start my own business right out of college. It was risky and scary, but I was used to taking chances and learning from my mistakes.

However, it’s important to note that while a high tolerance for risk can open up exciting opportunities, it can also lead to reckless behavior if not tempered with caution and wisdom.

5) They may struggle with discipline and routine

While the freedom that comes with laissez-faire parenting can nurture independent thinking and risk-taking, it can also lead to challenges when it comes to discipline and routine.

Being raised without strict rules or schedules often means you have to create your own structure.

For some, this can be an empowering experience. But for others, it can be overwhelming, especially in situations that require discipline and routine.

I’ve noticed this in my own life. Whether it’s sticking to a consistent workout schedule or maintaining a regular bedtime, I often find it difficult to follow routines. Instead, I tend to prefer flexibility and spontaneity.

This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it can create challenges in environments that require adherence to a set schedule or routine, like many workplaces do.

On the other hand, it also means that those of us raised by laissez-faire parents might be better suited to careers that offer more flexibility and autonomy, like freelancing or entrepreneurship.

It’s all about finding the right fit for your unique upbringing and personality.

6) They are often highly creative

Creativity is often born out of freedom, and what’s more freeing than a laissez-faire upbringing?

Growing up without too many rules or boundaries can often give your imagination the space it needs to grow and flourish.

You’re encouraged to think outside the box, to come up with your own solutions, and to see the world in your own unique way.

For instance, I’ve always had a knack for finding unconventional solutions to problems.

Whether it’s designing a makeshift tool to fix something around the house or finding a new approach to a work project, I thrive on thinking outside the box.

This creativity can be a huge asset in many areas of life, from career to personal relationships.

It allows you to see possibilities where others see dead ends, and it can make you a valuable team member in work settings that value innovation.

However, it’s worth noting that this same creativity can sometimes make it challenging to fit into more traditional or structured environments. 

7) They can be highly self-motivated

When you’re raised by laissez-faire parents, motivation usually has to come from within.

You’re not constantly pushed or prodded towards your goals, but rather, you learn to set your own objectives and find the drive within yourself to reach them.

I remember being a teenager and setting my own goals to get good grades and secure a scholarship for college.

My parents didn’t pressure me; they believed in letting me find my own path. This meant I had to motivate myself, pushing myself to study and excel.

In adulthood, this self-motivation has been a huge asset. Whether it’s tackling a challenging work project or setting personal fitness goals, I know how to light my own fire.

8) They often value authenticity above all else

In a laissez-faire upbringing, you’re often encouraged to be true to yourself.

There’s a certain level of authenticity that comes from being allowed to explore your own interests, make your own decisions, and ultimately, be your own person.

I’ve always valued authenticity in my personal and professional relationships. I appreciate when people are genuine and real with me, and I try to offer the same in return.

This has helped me build meaningful relationships and establish trust with colleagues.

However, this deep-seated value for authenticity can sometimes lead to conflicts.

Not everyone appreciates directness or transparency, and it can sometimes be seen as confrontational or too intense. It’s crucial to learn how to balance being authentic with being diplomatic.

At the end of the day, being raised by laissez-faire parents is a unique experience that shapes us in many ways. 

Final thoughts