Table 1 Measurement instructions for variables

Core variables

overprotective parenting style

Continuous variable

self-concept

Continuous variable

positive coping style

Continuous variable

academic anxiety

Continuous variable

Control variables

Father’s level of education

1 = below junior high school, 2 = high school/secondary school /vocational school,3 = post-secondary, 4 = ordinary college,5 = bachelor’s degree and above

Mother’s level of education

1 = below junior high school, 2 = high school/secondary school /vocational school,3 = post-secondary, 4 = ordinary college,5 = bachelor’s degree and above

Father’s occupation

0 = management (state agencies/institutions) or technical (teachers/engineers/doctors/lawyers);1 = other occupations

Mother’s occupation

0 = management (state agencies/institutions) or technical (teachers/engineers/doctors/lawyers);1 = other occupations

Family’s economic conditions

1 = very difficult, 2 = relatively difficult, 3 = medium, 4 = relatively rich, and 5 = best

Residence

0 = rural;1 = urban

Number of children

0 = = single child; 1 = has siblings

Gender

0 = female; 1 = male

Age

Continuous variable (unit: year)

Grade

1 = freshman, 2 = sophomore, 3 = junior