Parents' Involvement in College Life: The Rise of Helicopter Parenting

Helicopter parenting has become increasingly prevalent, with parents intervening in their college-aged children's lives more than ever before. The formation of targeted groups, such as WhatsApp or Facebook groups, for parents of college students has further enabled this trend. These groups serve as platforms for parents to participate in playdate setups, roommate searches, class concerns, and even food worries. The author distinguishes two types of people in these groups: those who enjoy the comedic aspect and those who actively contribute. However, this level of parental involvement goes against the traditional understanding that college marks the point where parents stop parenting. This widespread phenomenon has negative consequences, as it hampers independence and resilience among young adults. It is important for parents to find a balance between support and letting their children navigate college life on their own.