A father in Yichang, Hubei province, drove for five hours to Zhongnan University of Economics and Law in Wuhan in order to "occupy a seat" in a study room so his son could prepare for the national post-graduate examination. Although the father's zeal highlights the dearth of study spaces in colleges, it also shows some children rely too much on their parents, and their parents' willingness to indulge them, says an article on gmw.cn. Excerpts:

On the surface, the man's attempt to guarantee one of a limited number of seats for his son shows the shortage of quiet study rooms on campus, along with students' being more critical of their study environment.

But more alarmingly, it reflects young people's excessive reliance on their elderly parents. Despite being adults, many students get their parents to escort them when taking exams, attending matchmaking events, or when going for a job.

Astonishingly, there have been reports of college students mailing their laundry to their parents by express delivery. Also, one student got her mother to visit her by plane, just so she could bring some cold medicine. If students fail to be independent in life they will end up nowhere even if they do well in their exams.

In daily life, there are many things like "occupying a seat" that will present a challenge to young people. Therefore they need to cultivate independence and self-reliance. Rather than being an extra burden on their parents, young adults should try to ease the burden on their parents. Their parents too should let go their doting hold on their children and enjoy the rest of their lives.