Shanghai's parents intervene too much in their kids' leisure activities and their freedom to make friends, according to a report by the United Nations Children's Fund. The study also found parents are increasingly concerned about the psychological health of their children.

Researchers from East China Normal University and the Changning District Women's Federation talked to 475 students, ranging from primary to high school, and 448 sets of parents.

They found children's aspirations for freedom and rights of their own start to balloon in Grade 8. However, many adults don't understand their children's desire for independence.

Students said their parents arranged their homework schedules, plus musical instrument and English classes, leaving them little time for leisure and recreation.

Parents think kids should prioritize study, said Professor Sang Biao of the Psychology Department of East China Normal University.

Children want the freedom to choose their own friends, Sang said. But parents always want their kids to make friends with high-achieving students.

The study also showed many parents value the psychological health of children very much, but this often leads them to violate their children's privacy because they want to understand and care for their children better.

The survey was part of the United Nations agency's research on Family Education and Gender Equality.

(Shanghai Daily December 19, 2008)