Hyper Parenting Can Make Children Depressed, Researchers Find

Helen Holmes February 15, 2013

Parents want nothing but the best for their children. But sometimes, too much parenting, although done with the kindest intention, can actually affect the wellbeing of the child and make him or her exhibit symptoms of depression – a new study reveals.

In the study by the University of Mary Washington in the US, researchers looked at the effects of overbearing parenting style in children. Also called ‘helicopter parenting’, mums and dads who adopt this style tend to become too controlling, and are always in need to get involved in their children’s lives. They found that children of these parents become more likely to be depressed and dissatisfied with their lives when they reach adulthood.

For their study, the research team surveyed 297 American graduate students aged 18 to 23 to assess their perception of autonomy, competence, and social skills. They were also asked to describe their mum’s parenting behaviour. In addition, the students were asked to rate their overall satisfaction with their life, their level of anxiety, and whether or not they have experienced symptoms of depression.

Based on their analysis, the researchers found that students who received inappropriate level of parental control had lower level of wellbeing than those whose mums have been less controlling. They also showed higher risk of depression, low satisfaction and poor sense of autonomy, competence and interpersonal skill.

“Parents should be aware of helicopter parenting.”

The researchers noticed that over-controlling parents do not adjust their level of involvement and control over their children as they grow up and become younger adults – the period in which children increase their need for autonomy.

Holly Schiffrin, the study lead author, said parents should keep in mind how appropriate their involvement is to their children’s lives and adjust their parenting style when their kids feel they are hovering too closely. Their report, which was published in the Journal of Child and Family Studies, suggests that intense involvement is considered by some parents to be supportive while their children see it as ‘controlling and undermining’.

It is the dream of every parent to see their child happy and successful that they are willing to do anything to help them out. But just like all things, love requires balance. Too little can be dangerous, so as too much.

Source of this article:

Helicopter Parenting Can Violate Students’ Basic Needs

Helping or Hovering? The Effects of Helicopter Parenting on College Students’ Well-Being