The relationship between parental overprotection and student depression: The chain mediation role of psychological control and well-being

PLoS One. 2025 Jul 18;20(7):e0328498. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0328498. eCollection 2025.

ABSTRACT

This study investigated the relationship between parental overprotection and adolescent depressive symptoms, focusing on the chain mediation roles of psychological control and well-being. Using a survey-based design with a convenience sample of 823 adolescents aged 10-14, data were collected through validated scales measuring parental overprotection, psychological control, well-being, and depressive symptoms. Mediation analysis, conducted with the PROCESS macro for SPSS, revealed that parental overprotection exerts a significant positive effect on adolescent depression. Specifically, parental overprotection increases psychological control, which in turn reduces well-being, thereby exacerbating depressive symptoms. These findings underscore the importance of balanced parenting practices that limit psychological control and promote adolescent autonomy and well-being. Educators and mental health professionals are encouraged to collaborate with families to reduce overprotective behaviors and enhance adolescents’ resilience against depressive symptoms.

PMID:40680010 | DOI:10.1371/journal.pone.0328498