ABSTRACT

Since the dawn of time, the survival of the human race has been dependent on the proper care of our children. However, throughout the years the concept of how to accomplish this has changed. For the past few decades, a style of parenting has emerged that many call, “Helicopter Parenting” or “intensive parenting”. This form of over-protective parent is said to ‘hover’ over their child(ren), coddling and directing their life in ways that are no-longer age appropriate. This more than likely hinders the child’s independence and development. This study explored the correlation between the helicopter parenting style and increased anxiety found in adolescents, especially during decision making without parental input. Adolescents between the ages of 10-18 years of age were surveyed, both via an online questionnaire and in-person using a Galvanic Skin Response device. These adolescents were asked about their interactions with their parent(s), decision making, and their anxiety levels involved in decisions. Additionally, one parent was surveyed to assess their parenting beliefs and style. This research used a correlational model to discover whether higher levels of helicopter parenting showed a correlation to higher anxiety in adolescents when making decisions without parental direction.