This theory states that for an individuals' relationships to flourish, they must experience autonomy and competence within the relationship. Only those who experience high-quality relationships will experience a greater sense of psychological well-being. 

Relationships Motivation Theory

States that individuals have three basic psychological needs: autonomy, competency, and relatedness. These needs can either be fulfilled or unfulfilled by environment.

Saint Louis University

These parents are involved in their child’s life, but consider the child’s perspective and act in ways which encourage the child’s independence and ability to solve their own problems.

Autonomy Supportive Parents

Reed, K., Duncan, J. M., Lucier-Greer, M., Fixelle, C., & Ferraro, A. J. (2016). Helicopter parenting and emerging adult self-efficacy: Implications for mental and physical health. Journal of Child and Family Studies, 25(10), 3136–3149. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-016-0466-x

Helicopter Parenting and Emerging Adult Self-Efficacy

Self-Determination Theoretical Framework

Parenting style in which the parent or caregiver encourages a child’s autonomy yet still places certain limitations on behavior.

Authoritative Parenting

A subscale which assesses one's perceptions of their mother’s/mother figure’s autonomy supportive parenting behaviors. Researchers chose to measure mothers' parenting behaviors  instead of fathers, based on social norms (ex., greater likelihood of the mother being the overly
involved parent). Sample items include: 
- ‘‘My mother encourages me to make my own decisions and take the responsibility for the choices I have made" 
- ‘‘My mother encourages me to deal with any interpersonal problems between myself and my roommate or my friends on my own"

Autonomy Support Subscale 

Parent education was significantly related to autonomy support, life satisfaction and general physical health. Participants whose parents had a 4-year college degree or higher reported:
- Higher autonomy support
- Life satisfaction
- General physical health 
In comparison to those whose parents had a 2-year college degree or less.

Autonomy Support Demographics

Parenting style in which the parent or caregiver stresses obedience, deemphasizes collaboration and dialogue, and employs strong forms of punishment. This style can create anxious, withdrawn, and unhappy children.

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