[lesser23]

The term is helicopter parenting. Studies have shown children born after 1995 are significantly more stunted (they grow up more “slowly”) due to this. There are interesting consequences like, for example, the condition of college campuses and identity politics. There are also laws that punish parents for allowing their children unstructured, safe, adult-free time (the expansion of the definition of “neglect”). A great book called “The Coddling of the American Mind” covers this and more in great detail. These days, we have more than ever replaced the physical helicopter parent with devices.

[scripturial]

Where did these laws come from, why do they exist? My childhood (independent playing outside, going to the park by yourself, etc…) is not literally illegal, or did these laws always exist and no one cared?

[jleyank]

Keep in mind that ancient times (60's and 70's) also saw save-somebody's-ass politics. There's been a strong undercurrent of (counter)culture on campuses since then. Perhaps that was always the case, as the students would be the ones being shot on the barricades. At least that's why musicals and histories say.

Perhaps the lack of an external threat or insufficient motivation vs. failure leads to a lack of focus? Certainly, helicoptering does horrible things to the younger participants. Might that see-saw from generation to generation, or have we not seen those participants becoming parents yet?

I recall "good luck, we'll do all we can do to help you. F*ck up, and you're on your own...".