Helicopter parent

Helicopter parent is a term used to describe a style of parenting in which a parent pays extremely close attention to a child's or children's experiences and problems, particularly at educational institutions. The term was coined in the 1969 book Between Parent & Teenager by Dr. Haim Ginott. It refers to parents who hover over their children like a helicopter, always ready to come to their rescue.

Origins

The term "helicopter parent" is believed to have been first used in Dr. Haim Ginott's 1969 book Between Parent & Teenager. It was later popularized by American college administrators in the early 2000s as the millennial generation began reaching college age. Their baby-boomer parents, in turn, earned notoriety for practices such as calling their children each morning to wake them up for class and complaining to their professors about grades the children had received.

Characteristics

Helicopter parents are known to hover over their children and become overly involved in their lives. They take an excessive interest in their child's life and try to control their environment to protect and ensure their success. This can include, but is not limited to, making decisions for the child, solving their problems, and intervening in their conflicts.

Effects

While helicopter parenting can be motivated by the best of intentions, research suggests that it can lead to negative outcomes. These can include decreased self-efficacy, increased anxiety, and poor coping skills. It can also lead to a lack of problem-solving skills and an inability to face challenges independently.

Criticism

Critics of helicopter parenting argue that it is too invasive and does not allow children to develop the ability to handle adversity on their own. They suggest that children who have been the subject of helicopter parenting may develop a sense of entitlement and expectation that others will solve their problems for them.

See also

• Free-range parenting
• Tiger parenting
• Attachment parenting
• Parenting styles

References

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