Date post: | 18-Jul-2015 |
Category: |
Healthcare |
Upload: | family-first-pediatrics |
View: | 250 times |
Download: | 0 times |
The term “helicopter parent” is defined as a parent who is overly involved in the life
of his or her child.
Helicopter parents are overprotective. While many believe that this type of parenting can be
harmful, others write it off as media hype created by those who endorse free-range parenting.
Unlike helicopter parenting, free-range parenting gives children the freedom to explore the world at their own pace. In this piece, we’ll examine the pros and cons of helicopter parenting.
How Helicopter Parenting May be Beneficial One positive attribute of helicopter parents is that they
are deeply involved in their children’s lives.
Parents who take a seemingly overactive role in their child’s life are known for
monitoring their child’s safety at all times. They’ll typically know all the pertinent details about their
child’s location and who they’re spending time with.
There are several areas where children of helicopter parents struggle:
Although playing an active role in your child’s life is important, participating too much can potentially hinder your child’s development.
Problem-solving – Inhibiting your child from
overcoming everyday obstacles on their own can hinder
the development of these valuable problem-solving skills.
Dependency – Children who have everything done for
them will have difficulty learning to do it
themselves. Many children of helicopter parents have a
hard time learning to cook, clean, or adhere to a work or
school schedule.
Coping skills –Studies have found that helicopter
parenting can make children feel less competent in
dealing with the stresses of life on their own.
Confidence –An overwhelming fear of failure can cause
low self-confidence and anxiety. As a result, your child
may lack the confidence necessary to do well in school,
pursue hobbies and interests, and develop friendships.
Parenting Style Matters
Diana Baumrind, a clinical and developmental
psychologist, concluded that the optima parent is one
who implements an authoritative parenting style.
Authoritative parents are involved, responsive, and
establish high expectations, while still respecting their
child’s autonomy.
If you have any questions about the development of your child, and how your parenting style can help, please feel free to discuss it with your Oviedo Pediatric expert at
Family First Pediatrics.