["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis study examined the longitudinal association between overparenting and depression among college students and explored the underlying psychological mechanisms by testing core self‐evaluation as a mediator and perceived social support as a moderator.\n\n\nBackground\nAlthough prior research has documented a positive association between overparenting and depression among college students, most existing evidence is cross‐sectional, and the psychological mechanisms underlying this relationship remain insufficiently understood.\n\n\nMethod\nTwo studies were conducted (N = 2563). Study 1 employed a three‐wave cross‐lagged panel design with 12‐month intervals among 378 college students to examine longitudinal associations between overparenting and depression. Study 2 used cross‐sectional data from 2185 college students to test a moderated mediation model, with core self‐evaluation as a mediator and perceived social support as a moderator.\n\n\nResults\nStudy 1 showed that overparenting significantly predicted subsequent depression, with a bidirectional association for maternal overparenting and a unidirectional effect for paternal overparenting. Study 2 indicated that core self‐evaluation mediated the association between overparenting and depression, and this indirect effect was moderated by perceived social support, such that higher perceived social support buffered the negative impact of overparenting.\n\n\nConclusion\nOverparenting is associated with higher levels of depression among college students, whereas core self‐evaluation and perceived social support function as protective factors.\n\n\nImplications\nReducing overparenting may help mitigate depression among college students by promoting positive core self‐evaluations. Interventions and educational initiatives should reduce overparenting and foster supportive environments that enhance emerging adults' social support and psychological resources.\n\n"]