What type of parenting style is characterized by a parent who doesn't set rules and ignores behaviors?

The correct answer is a parenting style typically referred to as "Neglectful." This style is characterized by a lack of responsiveness to a child's needs and an absence of involvement in their lives. Parents who exhibit this style do not provide boundaries, set rules, or engage in their child’s experiences, which can result in feelings of neglect from the child. This absence can impact the child’s emotional and social development, as they may feel unloved or unsupported.

Neglectful parenting is not an active decision to provide a permissive environment; rather, it reflects a disengagement from the child's upbringing. In contrast, permissive parenting allows for some level of freedom, but it is usually coupled with warm engagement from the parent. The essence of neglectful parenting lies in the absence of both rules and emotional support, which distinguishes it from other parenting styles.