The Mediating Role of Helicopter Parenting in the Relationship between Family Communication Patterns and Resilience in First-semester College Students

ABSTRACT Resilience is important for students transitioning to college given vast attrition rates due to the stress of change and new challenges. This study applied family communication patterns theory (FCP) to explore the relationships among family environment, helicopter parenting, and student resilience. Two mediation models were tested with survey data from 2,253 people in their first semester of college in the United States. Both conversation and conformity orientations were positively associated with perceived helicopter parenting behaviors. However, only conversation orientation was positively associated with resilience. Helicopter parenting mediated the relationship between FCP and resilience. Theoretical and translational implications for scholars and parents are discussed.