In a Dutch-language article published in EOS Wetenschap, parental overprotection is discussed through the question of how to balance between support and control. The article discusses some parents, in a world perceived as uncertain or dangerous, may find it difficult to give their child enough autonomy, thereby discussing with Stijn Van Petegem from the SAFE-SORRY project. 

The article also discusses the role of digital tools, such as location-tracking apps or online school platforms, which allow parents to closely follow their children. These practices are not always experienced negatively by young people. However, they raise questions about the boundary between protection, parental involvement, and excessive control. 

Savannah Boele, from the PARADOx project at Erasmus University Rotterdam, explains that parenting is based on both support and control, but that these two dimensions can become problematic when they limit the young person’s autonomy. 

Finally, the article highlights that parental overprotection is also part of a broader social context, marked by strong expectations around parenthood. 

To read the full article, here is the link.