Overparented

Overparented describes a parenting style characterized by excessive involvement in a child's life, often to the extent of hindering their independence, autonomy, and ability to develop resilience. This can manifest as constantly intervening in their problems, managing their schedules, and shielding them from challenges or failures. The motivation is typically rooted in love and a desire to protect, but the long-term consequences can include anxiety, dependence, and a lack of self-efficacy in the child. The parent's actions inadvertently impede the child's natural process of learning from experience and developing self-reliance. This style is often coupled with high expectations and pressure.

Overparented meaning with examples

• The psychologist noted that Sarah's anxiety stemmed from being overparented. Her parents meticulously planned every aspect of her life, preventing her from making choices or experiencing the natural consequences of her actions. This stifled her ability to cope with stress and uncertainty, leaving her perpetually reliant on their guidance. It was essential for Sarah to break from the cycle of her parents' heavy involvement.
• Despite being a teenager, Tim had never done his own laundry. He was a clear example of an overparented child. His parents, with the best intentions, catered to his every need, creating an environment where he felt entitled and unprepared for the basic responsibilities of adulthood. The lack of practical life skills held him back in many ways, hindering his growth and the development of crucial life skills.
• The prevalence of helicopter parenting has lead to an increase in overparented children. Parents hover, constantly monitoring their children's activities and intervening in any perceived difficulty. This prevents kids from experiencing the vital learning opportunities that comes from solving their own problems, thus creating a generation less able to problem solve. Independent development is stunted.
• Experts warn that the trend of overparented students often backfires. When a university student's parents become overly involved, they will often call professors, or try to manage their child's work for them. This hinders students' ability to advocate for themselves and develop crucial communication skills, setting them back. It can make them reliant on others to fix their problems.