Life in the Drive-Thru Lane: Research on Over-Scheduling in Families

Abstract

This thesis explores a number of issues related to the concept of over-scheduling in children and youth. In particular, gender-work issues, media influences and family stress are considered. How over-scheduling is defined and what activities are considered extracurricular is discussed throughout this paper. Research related to the topic is discussed, with attention paid to ways counsellors can support parents of children during the counselling process. Consideration is given to changes in cultural perspectives of childhood and the current education system in North America. Information pertaining to international experience of over-scheduling was found to be limited to anecdotal speculation. Limitations to this thesis are considered and suggestions for future research and implications of over-scheduling within the counselling setting are discussed.