The Relationship between Helicopter Parenting and Academic Adjustment: The Mediating Role of Anxiety in Students

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, Faculty of Psychology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.

2 M.A. Student of Family Counseling, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.

3 B.A. of Psychology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to explore the relationship between helicopter parenting and academic adjustment, considering the mediating role of anxiety among students.
 
Methods: The research employed a descriptive-correlational design, with a study population comprising all 17,000 students of Shahid Beheshti University in the academic year 1399-1400. A sample of 335 students was selected through multi-stage cluster random sampling. Data were gathered using the Helicopter Parenting Questionnaire (Pistella, ISO, Isolania, Orno, and Bioko, 2020), Academic Adjustment Scale (Baker and Cyriac, 1984), and Anxiety Inventory (Beck, 1988). Analysis was conducted through the Pearson correlation test and structural equation modeling using Smart PLS and SPSS25 software.
 
Results: The findings revealed a positive and significant relationship between helicopter parenting and anxiety (P<0.01). Additionally, a significant negative relationship between anxiety and academic adjustment was observed (P< 0.01). While there was no direct and significant relationship between helicopter parenting and academic adjustment, an indirect relationship was established through anxiety.
 
Conclusion: In conclusion, although helicopter parenting may not directly impact students' academic adjustment and performance, it can exert an indirect influence by inducing stress and anxiety. Therefore, educating parents and counselors about the detrimental effects of this parenting style on their children's educational and psychological well-being through workshops and mass media is deemed necessary.
 

Keywords

References

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