Permissiveness: meaning, definitions and examples

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permissiveness

[pəˈmɪsɪvnəs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

social behavior

Permissiveness refers to a lenient or tolerant attitude towards certain behaviors or actions, often characterized by a lack of strict rules or regulations. It is the quality of being permissive, allowing freedom or flexibility in decision-making.

Synonyms

flexibility, leniency, tolerance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
permissiveness	This word describes a situation where there is a lack of strict rules or control, often leading to behavior that might be considered unhelpful or inappropriate. It may have a negative connotation. The permissiveness of the teacher led to chaos in the classroom. Societal permissiveness has increased over the past few decades.
leniency	Leniency refers to being gentle or not strict in enforcing rules or punishments. It usually carries a positive connotation, suggesting kindness or mercy. The judge showed leniency towards the first-time offender. She received leniency from her parents for breaking the curfew.
tolerance	Tolerance is the ability to accept or endure someone else's beliefs or behaviors, even if they are different from your own. It is often used in positive contexts to promote understanding and harmony. We need to promote greater tolerance among different communities. Her tolerance of his quirks made their relationship work.
flexibility	Flexibility means being able to adapt easily to different conditions or situations. It is often used positively to describe someone or something that can change according to circumstances. The flexibility in his work schedule allows him to spend more time with his family. Yoga improves the flexibility of the body.

Examples of usage

The permissiveness of the school's dress code led to students wearing inappropriate attire.
His permissiveness as a parent resulted in his children having little respect for authority.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

psychology

In psychology, permissiveness is a parenting style characterized by high levels of warmth and low levels of control. Parents who exhibit permissive behavior often have few demands and are very responsive to their children's desires.

Synonyms

indulgence, laxity, leniency.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
permissiveness	Used when referring to an environment or conduct where there are very few restrictions or limitations. It often carries a negative connotation implying excessive freedom without enough discipline. The parents' permissiveness led to children staying up late on school nights The school's permissiveness regarding dress codes has led to various issues
indulgence	Commonly utilized when allowing oneself or others to enjoy something enjoyable, often more than is considered acceptable. It can have a neutral to slightly positive connotation. He allowed himself the indulgence of a piece of chocolate cake Parental indulgence in buying their children toys can be both a blessing and a curse
leniency	Best used when describing a forgiving or merciful attitude towards someone, often in an official or authoritative position. It usually has a positive connotation of kindness or empathy. The judge showed leniency towards the first-time offender Her leniency with her students made her very popular
laxity	Typically refers to a lack of strictness or rigor in maintaining standards, rules, or discipline. It often carries a negative implication of negligence or weakness. The laxity in security measures led to a major breach His laxity in enforcing deadlines caused chaos in the office

Examples of usage

Children raised with permissiveness may struggle with self-discipline and boundaries.
The permissiveness of the parenting style resulted in the child feeling entitled and lacking in responsibility.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term comes from the Latin word 'permissio,' which means permission.
It was first used in English in the early 18th century, reflecting a move towards more open attitudes in society.

Psychology

Studies show that permissiveness in parenting can lead to children feeling more independent but may also lead to a lack of discipline.
The level of permissiveness in a society can influence the mental health of its citizens, impacting anxiety and stress levels.

Sociology

In sociological studies, higher permissiveness is often linked with more progressive social movements and changes in cultural norms.
Communities that embrace permissiveness may develop more inclusive spaces, reflecting diverse lifestyles and behaviors.

Education

Permissiveness in educational settings can foster creativity and free expression among students, although it might sometimes hinder focus.
Teachers who adopt a permissive style may create classrooms that prioritize student choice, encouraging a more engaged learning experience.

Popular Culture

The rise of permissiveness is often depicted in music and films from the 1960s, reflecting the counterculture movements of that era.
Television shows today frequently portray permissive parents and their effects on kids, offering both humorous and serious looks at the topic.

Translations

Translations of the word "permissiveness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 permissividade

🇮🇳 अनुज्ञात्मकता

🇩🇪 Nachgiebigkeit

🇮🇩 permisivitas

🇺🇦 поблажливість

🇵🇱 permisywność

🇯🇵 寛容さ

🇫🇷 permissivité

🇪🇸 permisividad

🇹🇷 müsamaha

🇰🇷 관용

🇸🇦 تسامح

🇨🇿 povolnost

🇸🇰 povoľnosť

🇨🇳 宽容

🇸🇮 popustljivost

🇮🇸 leyfi

🇰🇿 рұқсатшылдық

🇬🇪 დაშვება

🇦🇿 icazəvericilik

🇲🇽 permisividad

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,831, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

...
28828 heartened
28829 hydrophobia
28830 farrowing
28831 permissiveness
28832 redirecting
28833 noisome
28834 genii
...