Any parent’s first instinct is to shield their child in times of trouble. Being protective is an admirable quality in a parent but many negative effects have been seen on children who have overprotective parents. This finding is supported by studies that children raised this way are unable to deal with situations in an adequate manner. If you want to do what’s best for your child, understand that sometimes it’s okay to take a step back.
Overprotective behavior includes excessive catering to their needs, controlling their social circle, extreme caution and creating a dependency.
Here are the effects of overprotecting your children:
Lack of maturity
Children who grow up with protective parents are often dependent on others for the completion of their tasks. They also lack an understanding of appropriate responses in many situations and may not have the best approach towards problem-solving.
Lacking knowledge
If children are dependent on their parents for most of their tasks, they are usually used to it and may not know how to do things themselves. Not just textbook knowledge, they also lack knowledge of appropriate social interactions.
They have a sense of entitlement
Sheltered kids often think they are entitled to the best things in the world, without actually working for it or earning it. They may also lack compassion and may refuse to cooperate with others.
May not be able to take necessary risks
Growing up, children do not understand the importance of taking risks mostly because it is a habit that helps you grow into a successful adult. The overprotected environment does not leave much scope for growth and the chance of learning essential life skills is mostly compromised.
Here are some reasons why it is best not to overprotect your children. Give them space to grow and learn things for themselves so that they become an independent adult in the future.
