Twenty-first century technology helped create a new family phenomenon: the helicopter parent. Now, you can use your smartphone, social media, even RFID technology, to keep track of your child 24/7. But who says this behavior is just for parents?
Let’s talk about helicopter siblings. Older siblings are using modern technology to literally play ‘big brother’ to their younger siblings. Such habits start early. I just read one article where a 13-year old lectured his 12-year old sister about why she shouldn’t watch certain movies on Netflix. I can definitely see this older brother using the tablet or smartphone to spy on younger sister as they get older, especially when her first boyfriend comes around. ?Some psychologists believe children are imitating their helicopter parents when they do this. And helicopter siblings keep the trend well into adulthood. I read another article where an older brother used an app called Life 360 to follow his younger brother to a Kansas City restaurant. Jeff (older brother) can use Life 360 to see when Chris (younger brother) passes by, goes to work, or even goes on a date like he was in this Kansas City restaurant. I almost forgot to tell you; Jeff is 46 years old. Chris is 40.
Believe it or not, some younger siblings welcome it. Some voices say social media helicoptering keep them grounded and careful of what they post. I am not one of those voices. Family or no family, this is still an invasion of privacy. I understand why parents would use this to follow their teenagers, especially rebellious teens. I disagree with it, but understand it. So yes, I have a problem with grown adults using apps to follow other grown adults. At least Jeff and Chris consent. But what if there’s extreme family drama? Call me a product of the old school, but we didn’t need watching over 24 hours a day, seven days a week. And didn’t most of us turn out all right?