‘Helicopter parenting’ can cause behavioural problems, study shows

'Helicopter parenting' can cause behavioural problems, a new study has shown.

Children who are brought up by controlling parents are more likely to struggle in school and act out in the classroom than those who are a not. The study, published in online journal Developmental Psychology, showed that the majority of children who face interference by their parents face more challenges in later life. Lead author Nicole Perry said that these children are likely to struggle more due to their parents' behaviour. She said:

“Our research showed that children with helicopter parents may be less able to deal with the challenging demands of growing up, especially with navigating the complex school environment. “Children who cannot regulate their emotions and behaviour effectively are more likely to act out in the classroom, to have a harder time making friends and to struggle in school.”

422 children were involved in the study with their growth being observed between the ages of 2 - 10. Perry said that helicopter parenting didn't just mean being overbearing, but went as far as parents who told their child what toy to play with. She went on:

“Helicopter parenting behaviour we saw included parents constantly guiding their child by telling him or her what to play with, how to play with a toy, how to clean up after playtime and being too strict or demanding. “The kids reacted in a variety of ways. Some became defiant, others were apathetic and some showed frustration."

The study also showed that children who were able to regulate their emotions by the age of 5 were more likely to do better in school in later life.