College students with helicopter parents, or parents who constantly hover over their children's lives, may be getting more out of their college experiences than those whose parents don't interfere, according to a recent study by the National Survey of Student Engagement.
The College Board Web site defines helicopter parents as those "in constant contact with their children and make most of the big decisions for them. And when things get tough, they're all too ready to take their children's side and fight their battles for them."
Children of helicopter parents are more likely to participate in "deep learning" activities like independent research and discussions with professors outside of class, but actually earn lower grades overall, according to the study.
Although some children of helicopter parents may get more out of their college experience, many AU students said they had a negative view of helicopter parenting.
"I don't know how well they turn out when they're left alone," said Naomi Shakerdge, a freshman in the School of Public Affairs.
Helicopter parents can push their children and give good advice, said Rachel Sikorski, a freshman in the Kogod School of Business.
"[But] in the end, you need to make your own decisions," she said.
One student does not believe his parents are helicopter parents.
"My parents are hippies, seriously," said Ryan Holt, a freshman in SPA. "They aren't even close to helicopter parents."
Nevertheless, helicopter parenting might not be as negative as commonly thought, according to the National Survey of Student Engagement.
"Children of helicopter parents were more satisfied with every aspect of their college experience, gained more in such areas as writing and critical thinking and were more likely to talk with faculty and peers about substantive topics," George D. Kuh, director of the study, told The Washington Post.
Helicopter parents come in several different categories and in varying degrees, according to Sue Shellenbarger of the Wall Street Journal. These range from "Black Hawks," who go so far as to write college admissions essays for their children, to "Traffic and Rescue" helicopter parents who rush in with money, supplies and support in case of a crisis.
Although it is only natural for parents to want to help their children, they should be careful, according to the College Board.
"Helping your child become an independent adult is perhaps the most important and difficult thing you can do," according to the report.