52% of parents track their adult children via smartphone location apps, a University of Michigan survey reveals, highlighting a major generational shift in family dynamics.
Key Findings
- Tracking is widespread: A majority of parents (52%) of 18- to 25-year-olds use location apps to monitor their adult children. Most keep the tracking feature enabled at all times.
- Safety is the primary driver: The main reason cited is peace of mind about the young adult's safety. However, about 25% of tracking parents report that the monitoring actually increases their anxiety.
- Age matters: Tracking is significantly more common for 18- to 20-year-olds than for those in their early twenties.
- The non-trackers: The other 48% of parents choose not to track their adult children, citing reasons such as respecting their privacy or a desire to foster independence.
"Tracking should be consensual; late teens and early twenties are a critical period for developing autonomy." — Laurence Steinberg, Temple University
Expert Perspectives
Laurence Steinberg (Temple University) argues that tracking must be a consensual agreement. He warns that this age range is vital for building independence and suggests regular check-ins as a less intrusive alternative.
Sarah Clark (University of Michigan) notes that tracking can become problematic if it leads to micromanagement, such as calling out a young adult for missing a class. She recommends parents ask themselves whether the young adult's peer group already provides adequate safety nets.
Leah Beel (student and research assistant) shares that in her experience, tracking is often mutual within families and peer groups, serving as shared reassurance. For young adults who want more privacy, she suggests a gradual reduction in tracking.
Consideration
Experts emphasize that there is no single correct approach; expectations for privacy and contact vary widely between families. The article reports survey data and expert interpretation, not a new policy or event.