Journal of College Orientation, Transition, and Retention

Parental Involvement during Students’ Transition to College

Mixed Attitudes and Recommendations for “Ideal” Involvement

Tyler E. Smith

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24926/jcotr.v25i2.2124

Abstract

Parents have become increasingly involved in their children’s transitions to college over the past 15 to 20 years for various reasons. Overall, parental involvement is typically beneficial for children’s adaptation and success in new environments; however, it is less clear whether this is helpful as children move into early adulthood. The current article explores various reasons for increases in parental involve during the last 15 to 20 years. In addition, the idea of parental over-involvement (e.g., helicopter parents) is explored. Further, students have recommended ways in which parents can effectively support them as they transition to college. The article concludes with recommendations for parents to develop an “ideal” amount of parental involvement in order to support students as they transition to college.