"Get a job!" Helicopter parenting.
- Lynsey Welstead
- Jul 22, 2023
- 2 min read
While it's great for parents to be involved in their child's life and offer guidance, being a "helicopter parent" when telling a child to get a job can lead to certain problems and challenges. Here are some potential issues with being overly involved in your child's job search:
Lack of Independence: Helicopter parenting can hinder a teenager's ability to develop independence and take ownership of their own actions. They may become overly reliant on their parents for decision-making, which can be detrimental to their personal growth and self-confidence.
Limited Problem-Solving Skills: If parents handle most aspects of the job search process, the child might miss out on the opportunity to develop problem-solving skills and learn from the challenges that come with finding a job.
Misaligned Interests: Overly involved parents may push their child towards a job that aligns with the parent's interests or expectations rather than the child's passions and goals. This could lead to dissatisfaction and lack of motivation in the job.
Interference in Interviews: If parents are too involved in the interview process, it can create an awkward situation for the potential employer and the child. Employers expect to interact directly with the applicant during interviews to assess their suitability for the job.
Weakening Responsibility and Accountability: When parents handle the job search entirely, the child may not feel accountable for their actions, and if things don't go well, they might blame their parents rather than taking responsibility for their efforts.
Stress and Pressure: Excessive pressure from parents to find a job can lead to increased stress and anxiety for the child. They might feel overwhelmed by the expectations set by their parents.
Potential Resentment: Constant interference or pressure from parents may lead to feelings of resentment in the child, causing strain in the parent-child relationship.
Missed Learning Opportunities: The job search process offers valuable learning opportunities about professionalism, communication, and perseverance. When parents handle everything, the child misses out on these learning experiences.
Inability to Handle Job Challenges: If the child secures a job due to parental interference, they may not have the necessary skills to handle workplace challenges independently.
Limited Growth and Development: Overly involved parents might inadvertently hinder their child's personal and professional growth by making decisions on their behalf.
Instead of being a helicopter parent, consider adopting a supportive and empowering approach. Offer guidance, resources, and encouragement, but allow your child to take the lead in their job search. Provide advice when needed, but let them make their own decisions and learn from their experiences. Trust in their capabilities, and believe in their potential to succeed on their own terms. By striking a balance between support and independence, you can help your child develop essential life skills and build the confidence needed to navigate their future career successfully.




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