Media Releases
Dr C Keerthigha, Ph.D. | Empowering Youth: The Ripple Effect of Helicopter Parenting Research
Research Output and Activities
For my doctoral research, I explored the intricate dynamics of helicopter parenting using an interdisciplinary approach, combining social cognition, organisational psychology, and experiential learning frameworks. By employing cutting-edge methodologies like text mining and intervention testing, my research has shed light on the far-reaching impacts of over-involved parenting on youth autonomy and psychological well-being. This work identified key gaps in parental understanding, highlighting the need for a more balanced approach to nurturing independence in children.
The research has led to a deeper understanding of how parental behaviour influences broader societal trends in youth development. Through literature reviews, data collection, and expert collaboration, I developed evidence-based interventions designed to foster healthier family dynamics. The innovative use of technology, such as text mining, has made this research particularly impactful, offering fresh perspectives and data-driven insights that are now influencing the social sciences' approach to studying parenting.
Advancement of Knowledge
My research on helicopter parenting has sparked significant interest from stakeholders like the National Youth Council, leading to a research grant of SGD 6,000. By examining the effects of over-involvement on youth autonomy and resilience, the study has influenced youth development initiatives and policies. My findings, presented at both local and international platforms, have raised awareness among educators, parents, and youth organisations, offering fresh insights into family dynamics that could be adopted in parenting programs and institutional frameworks.
"Keerthigha is a delight to work with and will absolutely add value … with her skills and work ethics. –A/P Wendy Li, Associate Dean for Research in College of Healthcare Sciences at James Cook University, Australia
I had received special commendation for my presentation at the Southeast Asian Indigenous Psychology Scientific Meeting in 2021 and was invited to publish the paper in special issue ‘Our Southeast Asia Indigenous Psychology’ at International Perspective in Psychology "
Implementation
Through innovative text mining techniques, I analysed data from forums on helicopter parenting, revealing actionable insights for interventions. This data-driven approach provides new strategies for counsellors and practitioners to address parental involvement issues effectively. With support from the National Youth Council and James Cook University Singapore, my research offers practical solutions for creating environments that promote youth independence. These findings hold the potential to shape training programs that help parents foster stronger family bonds, positively impacting youth development and overall family well-being
Legislation and Policy
The outcomes of my research serve as a guide for policymakers and educators to craft guidelines that support balanced parenting. By advocating for experiential learning, such as integrating Outward Bound Singapore into school curricula, my research paves the way for educational reforms that foster youth autonomy and life skills. The ongoing collaboration with key institutions underscores the study’s role in shaping policies that encourage healthier, more resilient youth development.
Economic Benefit
My research offers cost-effective solutions by utilising text mining technologies to reduce the traditional expenses associated with data collection. Additionally, insights into better parenting strategies could result in long-term savings by lowering the demand for mental health services and educational interventions for affected youths, ultimately benefiting both families and institutions economically.
Community Benefit
My research has the potential to transform parenting practices, empowering parents to foster healthier relationships with their children through autonomy-supportive methods. By promoting youth resilience and independence, the findings contribute to building a stronger, more engaged community. Parents, educators, and youth organisations now have the tools to develop strategies that prepare young individuals for the complexities of modern life, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.
Publications
Keerthigha, C., Singh, S., Chan, K. Q., & Caltabiano, N. (2023). Helicopter parenting through the lens of reddit: A text mining study. Heliyon, 9(10). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20970