The Benefits Of Helicopter Parenting

How does a person grow up to be who they are? Most people would say it’s the way one’s parent raises them. “A helicopter parent is a term used to describe an overprotective mother or father that discourages a child’s independence by being too involved in their life” (dictionary). Basically, it sounds like a child’s worst nightmare. We live in a society today where we feel the need to constantly protect our children. But a line is drawn when overprotection occurs. There are parents that give their children space while others, hover over them like a lost puppy. Imagine sitting in a college class and receiving an incessant amount of phone calls and texts every second of the day. It’s almost as if there 's no escape in finding oneself’s independence …show more content…
“One of the primary objectives of a residential college is learning to be an independent student. That means learning how to do what needs to be done, whether one particularly feels like doing it or not. Yet helicoptering congestion persists by parental wake-up calls and day-to-day tracking of classroom attendance and homework completion” (Griffin and Russell). Helicopter parents continue their overprotective involvement in their children’s life, even during their adolescent years. They are showing up at colleges uninvited for non scheduled visitations frequently to check up on them. It’s a difficult situation for one to be controlled and constantly watched upon because they may be lacking decision making skills, freedom, and independence to be on their own. Lacking self-reliance isn’t effective with decision-making. Independence is a fundamental purpose in living a successful and happy life. Basic problem solving skills may become a challenge for a person to complete for a child who deals with a helicopter parent. “Trial-and-error helps them hone their problem solving skills and develop the confidence to overcome even the most insurmountable challenges. If a parent intervenes at the first sign of struggle and finish their child 's homework, complete a challenging puzzle or apologize on their behalf in front of Grandma, they will miss out on valuable learning opportunities. It sends a message to always be perfect which could prevent them from achieving career goals” (Blau). Imagine not being able to accomplish a simple task such as tying shoes, making your own lunch, or waking up on your own. Parents that are constantly doing everything for their children are not teaching them basic problem solving skills. What would happen if one day they aren’t around any more. Who will they rely on next? It’s important to teach kids simple everyday tasks for them to be able to perform on